By: Patrick Flannery
Representative, State of Kentucky
August can be a somber month for many Kentuckians as August 31 marks the annual recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day. For far too many, the day serves as a painful reminder of loved ones lost to overdose. However, it is also an opportunity to honor their memory and recommit ourselves to doing more in the fight against addiction and substance abuse.
According to the state’s Office of Drug Control Policy, there were 1,984 overdose deaths in Kentucky. While this was a decrease of 9.8% from 2022, it is still almost 50% higher than just five years ago. And, regardless of the numbers, almost 2,000 Kentuckians died, leaving behind families and friends and untold potential.
Addiction in Kentucky is a significant public health issue, with high rates of opioid abuse and related fatalities. The state has been particularly hard-hit by the opioid crisis, leading to increased efforts in prevention, treatment, and recovery programs. Addressing addiction remains a critical challenge for Kentucky’s communities.
Substance abuse continues to affect Kentuckians across the Commonwealth. On Overdose Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of educating ourselves about the warning signs and symptoms of substance abuse and overdoses. Without increasing awareness about this crisis, we cannot hope to combat it effectively. Together, we can work to reduce the stigma surrounding opioid abuse and overdose-related deaths.
This is not a partisan issue. It is not a regional issue. It is not an urban, suburban, or rural issue. Addiction does not care if you are black or white, rich or poor, young or older. It only cares that you have a life it can ruin.
As legislators, we must reach across the aisle, putting aside our political differences to fight this growing crisis. Today serves as a reminder of the ties that bind us, rather than the issues that divide us. We are Kentuckians first.
This interim, our work towards preventing overdose-related deaths must be a top priority for this legislature. I promise to work tirelessly to secure a brighter future for future generations of Kentuckians. We owe it to our constituents, our families, and ourselves to try. During the 2024 Regular Session, we passed HB 5 and SB 74, which include the following:
- Known as the Safer Kentucky Act, HB 5 includes language that makes possession of “…fentanyl… or a fentanyl derivative” a Class-C felony in Kentucky, increasing penalties for repeat offenders.
- SB 74, known as the Momnibus Bill, expands maternal healthcare for newborns and mothers across the Commonwealth.
- A provision in the law allows for at-home treatment for mothers who suffer from substance abuse.
As a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives, I will continue to advocate for those who struggle with substance abuse. Please visit the 2024 Regular Session Record section of the Bills page on legislature.ky.gov to see how we have worked to prevent overdose-related deaths and keep Kentuckians safe.
As always, I can be reached anytime through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. You can also contact me via e-mail at Patrick.Flannery@lrc.ky.gov and keep track through the Kentucky legislature’s website at legislature.ky.gov.
