As the most populous state in America, with nearly 39 million residents, California will naturally be among the leaders in the country for many categories. Unfortunately, the state now leads the nation in drug overdose deaths, with 10,952 in 2022, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The California opioid epidemic has reached such high levels that the state government has stepped in to combat the crisis. “We have an all-hands-on-deck strategy focused on preventing tragedy, connecting people with treatment and prioritizing harm reduction strategies to reduce overdoses and compassionately help those struggling with substance use and addiction,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “We’re fighting back together to protect our families.”