Gov. Beshear Orders Flags to Half-Staff Monday for Overdose Victims

Executive Mansion will be lit purple for overdose awareness

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 28, 2026) - Gov. Andy Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Monday, Aug. 31, in observance of Overdose Awareness Day in Kentucky. In addition to lowering the flag, the Governor's Mansion will be lit purple, the color designated to show support for overdose awareness, on Monday.

"As we recognize Overdose Awareness Day here in the commonwealth, we remember those we have lost, offer support to their families and stand with those still struggling," said Gov. Beshear. "We've made a lot of progress, but we know there is always more to do. One life lost to overdose is one too many. And we're committed to continuing this progress until that number gets to zero."

Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held each year on Aug. 31 to raise awareness of drug overdoses, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends as they remember those who have died or have a permanent injury as a result of a drug overdose.

Flags across the commonwealth are already at half-staff in honor of Dolly Parton. Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the commonwealth to join in this tribute of lowering the flag in observance of Overdose Awareness Day as well. Flag status information is available at governor.ky.gov/flag-status.

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