Committee hears bill to designate Aug. 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in Maryland

The Health and Government Operations Committee heard House Bill 690 (HB690) to designate August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in Maryland, a recognition supporters said would both honor those lost and promote treatment and stigma reduction.

Cameron Gross, legislative director for Delegate Jeff Long, presented testimony in support, explaining the designation’s goal to recognize lives lost to overdose and encourage those struggling with substance use to seek care. Teresa Hessler of the Recovery Housing and Treatment Centers Coalition of Maryland said the bill is a straightforward, symbolic measure that carries an important message and complements the state’s other addiction and recovery efforts.

Hessler cited a 2024 decline in fatal overdoses — a 38% reduction — which she attributed to comprehensive treatment, harm-reduction strategies and community initiatives. Committee members asked questions about the date; Gross said August 31 coincides with International Overdose Awareness Day. The committee closed the hearing on HB690 with a request for a favorable report; no recorded vote occurred during the meeting.