ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland Governor Wes Moore this week announced a significant 38% decrease in fatal overdoses for the year 2024, marking a historic reduction from the previous year’s figures. The state reported 1,553 fatal overdoses last year, down from 2,511 in 2023.

Moore attributed the decline to increased investments in behavioral health and substance use care, emphasizing the state’s commitment to ongoing efforts despite the progress.

“The decrease in fatal overdoses we’re seeing in Maryland is historic, and it’s proof that our investments in behavioral health and substance use care are paying off,” Moore said in a statement.

The Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council, chaired by Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, has established a workgroup to study the racial disparities in overdose rates, aiming to formulate recommendations for further action.

The announcement comes as a beacon of hope following years where fatal overdoses reached unprecedented highs, especially post the COVID-19 pandemic, with 2021 seeing 2,800 deaths, the most in Maryland’s history. The last time the state saw fewer than 2,000 fatal overdoses was in 2015, with 1,259 deaths.

“Maryland remains committed to ensuring access to substance use care whenever and wherever it is needed,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott. “The progress we have made would not be possible without the hard work of dedicated individuals across the state, from local health departments and local behavioral health authorities to our thriving mosaic of amazing community organizations that are working every day to provide supportive services.”

Moore’s office noted that while the numbers are promising, they are still subject to change as some death investigations remain pending. The focus now, according to state officials, is on continuing to provide access to care, reducing stigma, and addressing the root causes of substance use disorders across all communities in Maryland.

Information about how to respond to an overdose and how to find and use naloxone can be found at https://StopOverdose.maryland.gov/naloxone.​