Governor Patrick Morrisey announced that West Virginia has recorded the largest reduction in overdose deaths in the nation, according to newly released data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). West Virginia led the country in the reduction of overdose deaths for the last two months, with a nearly 41% reduction in year over year reporting.

“West Virginia is setting the standard for successfully battling addiction and saving lives,” said Governor Morrisey. “Our nation-leading reduction in overdose deaths is the result of a holistic approach to tackle drug use and abuse. We will continue to work hard together to prevent further senseless death in West Virginia.”

One important part of future efforts to reduce the drug epidemic is the West Virginia First Foundation, a groundbreaking organization created following successful legal action led by Governor Morrisey during his tenure as Attorney General. The Foundation manages and distributes funds from opioid litigation settlements to support prevention, treatment, and enforcement efforts across the state.

Overall efforts from the state, local communities, employers, and resources garnered from the Foundation and the federal government have resulted in substantial success:

• Opioid-related deaths down nearly 69%
• Fentanyl-related deaths down more than 71%
• Meth-related deaths down 64%
• Cocaine-related deaths at their lowest in nearly a decade

“These numbers reflect a pivotal shift in West Virginia’s response to the overdose crisis,” said Alex Mayer, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “A 41% reduction in overdose deaths over the past year is more than a statistic; it represents hundreds of lives saved and real progress in communities across the state. This outcome underscores the effectiveness of our comprehensive approach and the dedication of partners across prevention, treatment, and recovery.”