[PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that for the second year in a row, Minnesota saw a drop in overdose deaths and hospitalizations. Overdose deaths decreased 26%, from 2023 to 2024, while hospital-treated nonfatal overdoses decreased 19%. These decreases were seen in nearly every region of the state and across demographics. 

“This is incredible progress and a testament to the shared goals, dedication, and overdose prevention efforts happening across Minnesota,” said Governor Walz. “Together, we’re saving lives and showing what’s possible when we meet this crisis with compassion and action. This is measurable progress, and we’re going to keep working to save lives.”

“This decline in overdose deaths and hospitalizations shows what can happen when partners come together with a shared goal. This progress is thanks to the collaboration of communities, state and local governments, Tribal Nations, health care providers, and public health and safety,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “Working together, we have expanded naloxone access and strengthened prevention and recovery supports. But we’re not done. We have to keep the momentum going to further prevent the tragic consequences of fentanyl and other drugs in our communities.”

Over the last three years the Governor and legislature have provided significant funding for substance use and overdose prevention, treatment, and recovery for those experiencing addiction. 

“Strength-based prevention strategies are working,” said Mariah Wabasha, director, Lower Sioux Human Services. “At the same time, we believe this momentum should be viewed as a step toward the larger goal of eliminating overdoses altogether. Even one life lost to overdose is too many, and the work must continue to ensure families and communities do not have to carry that loss.” 

“State funding empowered Open Cities Health Center to lead overdose prevention efforts at the intersection of housing, substance use, and public health,” said Katyka Ivanchuk, outreach overdose prevention coordinator, Open Cities Health Center. “This cross-sector, community-centered approach saves lives and strengthens neighborhood clinics in St. Paul.”

The largest decrease in overdose deaths, 31%, occurred in Greater Minnesota counties, while metro counties experienced a 23% decrease.

In 2024, opioid-involved deaths in Minnesota decreased by 32%, including a 35% decline in synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl. All other opioid-related categories, including prescribed opioids, heroin, and methadone, continued to decline. Nonfatal overdoses also decreased across all other substance categories, with nearly 15 nonfatal overdoses treated in hospitals for every one overdose death. This downward trend reflects a national pattern and underscores the effectiveness of sustained prevention and overdose prevention strategies.

Read the full report: Statewide Trends in Drug Overdose: 2024 Data Update