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SJR 9

DESIGNATING AUGUST 31, 2025, AS "INTERNATIONAL OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY" IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE AND REQUIRING THE STATE FLAG TO BE FLOWN AT HALF-STAFF IN OBSERVANCE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 5 co-sponsors

Delaware officially recognizes August 31, 2025, as International Overdose Awareness Day and requires half-staffing of state flags in memory of overdose victims.

Signed by Governor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJR 9

Legislative bill overview

SJR 9 designates August 31, 2025, as "International Overdose Awareness Day" in Delaware and requires the state flag to be flown at half-staff on that date. The bill has already passed both chambers and been signed into law by the Governor.

Why is this important

Overdose deaths have become a major public health crisis in Delaware and nationwide. Designating an official awareness day with flag-lowering ceremonies provides formal state recognition of the issue and memorializes those lost to addiction, potentially raising public consciousness about the ongoing opioid epidemic.

Potential points of contention

  • Half-staff protocol concerns: Some may argue that half-staffing flags is traditionally reserved for deaths of notable officials or major tragedies, raising questions about precedent and whether this constitutes an appropriate use of the practice
  • Awareness vs. action debate: Critics might contend that symbolic gestures alone are insufficient without accompanying policy measures or funding to address addiction treatment and prevention
  • Limited scope: The designation applies only to August 31, 2025, which is a single observance; questions could arise about whether this becomes an annual practice and what ongoing state commitments exist beyond the symbolic gesture

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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