PENNSYLVANIA, July 7 - Control and Prevention.

(4) In this Commonwealth alone, 4,458 individuals died

from drug overdoses in 2019 according to the Pennsylvania

Department of Health.

(5) For every drug overdose that results in death, there

are many more nonfatal overdoses, each taking an emotional

and economic toll on the individual, their family and the

community at large.

(6) Drug addiction can fuel feelings of shame, guilt,

embarrassment, depression and hopelessness, causing

individuals to resist seeking treatment and support.

(7) Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held on

August 31 of each year that aims to raise awareness of drug

overdoses, reduces the stigma of a drug-related death and

acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends

remembering those who have died or have had a permanent

injury as a result of a drug overdose.

(8) To further the goals of Overdose Awareness Day, the

General Assembly requests the Governor order flags throughout

this Commonwealth be flown at half staff for the day's

duration.

(9) Overdose Awareness Day sends a strong message to

former or current substance users that they are valued and

that overdose death is preventable.

Section 3. Designation.

August 31 of each year shall be designated as Overdose

Awareness Day to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the

stigma of a drug-related death.

Section 4. Flags.

On August 31 of each year, the Governor may order flags be

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