There were a record number of suspected overdose deaths in North Carolina last year.
In 2022, there were more than 4,200 suspected overdose deaths, according to preliminary data released by the North Carolina medical examiner's office. That's 7% higher than 2021 and close to 60% more than in 2019.
Elizabeth Brewington is with the North Carolina Council of Churches. She says some new laws targeted at dealers have contributed to deaths.
"The death by distribution law passed, so people got more afraid to call and ask for help when their friend was overdosing. And that fear definitely leads to an increase in overdose deaths and people leaving the scene," she said.
Brewington and other faith leaders call for harm reduction strategies that are shown to save lives.