DEPARTMENT: Public Health
FILE TYPE: Regular Action
TITLE
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Update On Opioid Settlement Response And Proclamation of August As Overdose Awareness Month In Dakota County
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RESOLUTION
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WHEREAS, August is International Overdose Awareness Month, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about overdose prevention and honoring those impacted by Substance Use Disorder; and
WHEREAS, the misuse of alcohol and other drugs are important risk factors for chronic disease, disability, and death in the United States; and
WHEREAS, Dakota County staff, in partnership with other organizations, is committed to building public awareness and addressing stigma as important steps in supporting people to access treatment and support for both mental health and Substance Use Disorder.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners hereby proclaims August as Overdose Awareness Month in Dakota County and supports efforts to promote overdose awareness, evidence-based prevention education, and access to services and supports to serve the mental health and substance use needs of the residents of Dakota County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That in observance of this proclamation, the Dakota County Service Centers and the Dakota County Crisis and Recovery Center will be lit in purple on August 31, 2026, International Overdose Awareness Day, and Dakota County residents, businesses, and city partners are also encouraged to shine a purple light to honor those who have been affected by overdose.
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BACKGROUND
Every August, International Overdose Awareness Month brings a global community together to take action on overdose. This year marks the 25th anniversary of this global initiative.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), in 2025, there were a total of 63 deaths due to drug overdose in Dakota County, with 39 of those attributed to opioids. MDH also tracks the total number of nonfatal hospital visits for drug overdoses. Th...
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