During a recent budget work session held on April 17, 2025, the Prince George's County Planning, Housing, and Economic Development Committee engaged in critical discussions regarding the establishment of opioid treatment facilities in the county. The meeting highlighted significant barriers faced by potential operators, particularly concerning zoning regulations and the special exception process required for such facilities.

The committee learned that the current zoning ordinance poses substantial challenges for operators seeking to establish treatment centers. A representative from a prospective clinic noted that while the 500-foot setback requirement from residential zones is manageable, the special exception process creates a lengthy and costly hurdle. This process can take up to a year, during which operators must lease space without generating any revenue, making it financially unfeasible for many.

The urgency of addressing the opioid crisis in Prince George's County was underscored by statistics indicating a significant gap in treatment availability. Currently, the county has only one operational opioid treatment facility, while studies suggest a need for services for approximately 4,800 residents suffering from opioid use disorder. This stark contrast highlights the pressing demand for additional facilities to combat the ongoing crisis.

Committee members expressed concerns about the potential for legal challenges if the zoning regulations are not carefully crafted. They emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable treatment for different types of addiction services, particularly in light of past legal precedents regarding methadone treatment centers. The discussion also touched on the need for a comprehensive study to assess the appropriate zoning mechanisms and to avoid any disparate impacts on various treatment types.

In response to these discussions, the committee agreed to explore options for streamlining the zoning process and to gather data from other jurisdictions to inform their decisions. They recognized the importance of balancing the urgent need for treatment facilities with the community's concerns about zoning and public health implications.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will remain on developing a framework that supports the establishment of necessary treatment services while addressing the community's needs and legal considerations. The next steps will involve gathering additional data and potentially revising zoning regulations to facilitate the timely opening of new facilities in Prince George's County.