The Prince George - Planning, Housing and Economic Development Committee convened on June 5, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting the community, particularly focusing on addiction treatment accessibility.

During the meeting, Stacy Jones, a resident and recovery advocate, highlighted the urgent need for methadone treatment facilities in Prince George's County. Jones shared her personal experiences with addiction and emphasized the challenges faced by individuals seeking recovery without local access to necessary medications. She pointed out that residents are often forced to travel outside the county for treatment, likening the situation to requiring diabetics to leave their community for insulin. Jones urged the committee to support a proposed bill aimed at improving treatment access, stating that while it may not solve all issues immediately, it would significantly benefit those in need.

Following Jones's testimony, the committee discussed the proposed bill. Council members agreed to hold the bill for further study and to seek comments from the planning board, ensuring a thorough review before any decisions are made. The motion to hold the bill passed unanimously, with a target date for further discussion set for July 9.

In addition to the main topic, the committee addressed two housekeeping matters, including an emergency resolution deemed unnecessary and another bill that was also held for further consideration. Both motions passed without opposition.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, reflecting a commitment to revisit the critical issues surrounding addiction treatment in future sessions. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the community and the committee's intent to explore viable solutions.