Every year, hundreds of Vermont families are affected by the loss of a loved one to overdose. While overdose deaths have declined in recent years, the crisis is far from over, and every life lost is one too many.

Vermont Harm Reduction Advocates is calling on Governor Phil Scott and members of the Vermont General Assembly to establish an annual tradition of flying the Vermont State flag at half-staff on August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day, beginning in 2026.

This simple but meaningful act would honor the Vermonters we have lost, recognize the families and communities who continue to grieve, and reaffirm Vermont's commitment to preventing overdose deaths and reducing the stigma surrounding substance use disorder.

In 2021, the Vermont Senate passed legislation recognizing August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day and included language directing that the Vermont State flag be flown at half-staff in observance. Although the bill did not complete passage through the House, the need for this recognition remains as strong as ever.

By sending this letter, you can urge Governor Scott to honor the intent of that legislation through executive action and encourage your state legislators to support permanently establishing this annual observance in Vermont law.

Together, we can ensure that every Vermonter lost to overdose is remembered, every grieving family is acknowledged, and every community knows that these lives mattered, and always will.