New Hampshire Sees Sharp Decline in Opioid Overdoses, Governor Ayotte Calls State a National Model

CONCORD, N.H. – Governor Kelly Ayotte announced that opioid-related deaths in New Hampshire have dropped by 35% from 2023 to 2024, surpassing the national rate of decline. The data, released by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, marks significant progress in the state’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis.

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State officials, including Ayotte, attribute the success to a combination of law enforcement interdiction and expanded treatment initiatives.

“Thanks to our state’s coordinated approach to fighting the drug crisis, New Hampshire is a model for the nation in bringing down fatal overdose deaths,” said Ayotte. “We will build on this progress and continue to be vigilant by strengthening our drug interdiction efforts through Operation Granite Shield and Northern Shield while supporting those in recovery with investments in our Community Mental Health Centers and Recovery Friendly Workplaces.”

Coordinated Efforts Driving Results

The decline in overdoses follows years of strategic investment in both enforcement and treatment. Since 2019, the Doorways Program has helped more than 37,000 individuals seek treatment for substance use disorders, making treatment more accessible across the state. In addition, the Recovery Friendly Workplace Program has worked to reduce stigma and encourage treatment options for those struggling with addiction.

State health officials point to these initiatives as key factors in the recent downturn.

“The significant declines in fatal overdoses demonstrate that New Hampshire’s all-hands-on-deck commitment is effectively addressing the opioid addiction and overdose crisis,” said DHHS Commissioner Lori Weaver. “By working to reduce stigma, increasing access to community-based treatment, and implementing a comprehensive, statewide response, New Hampshire is recognized as a national leader in addressing the addiction crisis.”

New Hampshire has also prioritized increasing access to naloxone, the life-saving opioid reversal drug. The state is the first in the nation to make Naloxboxes widely available to any entity requesting one.

Law Enforcement’s Role in the Fight

While public health measures have expanded, law enforcement initiatives remain at the forefront of the state’s strategy. Operation Granite Shield and the Northern Shield Program have played a critical role in drug interdiction efforts. The Department of Safety, in coordination with local agencies, continues to target trafficking operations to prevent the flow of dangerous substances into New Hampshire communities.

Department of Safety Commissioner Robert L. Quinn emphasized the need for continued vigilance.

“I’m pleased that we continue to reduce overdose deaths, which is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our public health teams, law enforcement, and substance abuse treatment partners,” said Quinn. “While this progress is promising, we must continue to prioritize our collaborative enforcement efforts to prevent these substances from entering our communities.”

Budget Proposal to Sustain Progress

Governor Ayotte’s proposed budget aims to maintain New Hampshire’s status as a leader in addressing substance use. The plan includes:

• Expanding drug interdiction efforts with a focus on cross-border coordination, particularly in partnership with the City of Lawrence.

• A dedicated Northern Shield Program to combat drug trafficking in rural areas.

• $10 million in funding to support uncompensated care through Community Mental Health Centers.

• Full funding for the Recovery Friendly Workplace Program, ensuring continued support for individuals in recovery.

  
  

New Data Confirms Progress

According to the latest report from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, total confirmed drug deaths in New Hampshire for 2024 stand at 282, with an additional four cases pending toxicology results. This represents a sharp decline from 431 confirmed drug deaths in 2023.

Fentanyl remains the leading cause of overdose deaths, though cases involving methamphetamine, cocaine, and other opioids have also been recorded. The report also noted xylazine was detected in 51 deaths and carfentanil in nine cases, underscoring the ongoing dangers posed by synthetic opioids.

With New Hampshire’s comprehensive strategy showing clear results, state leaders reaffirmed their commitment to both preventing drug-related deaths and supporting individuals in recovery.

“We’re making real progress, but we must stay aggressive,” Ayotte said. “We’ll continue to fight for the safety of our communities and the well-being of every Granite Stater.”