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The ‘not in my backyard’ barrier stalling California’s addiction treatment buildout

Written by Jeffrey C. Lynne, Esq. — Founder of Lynne Legal, P.A. Florida Bar member since 1997 (Bar No. 116556).

October 9, 2026

California has committed billions of dollars to building new behavioral health treatment capacity, but some substance use disorder projects are stalling at city council meetings before they can open.

Robb Layne, executive director of the California Association of Alcohol and Drug Program Executives, told Becker’s that local opposition has become one of the biggest barriers to expanding access in the state.

About the author

Jeffrey Lynne

Founder of Lynne Legal P.A. and Of Counsel to Cohen Norris Wolmer Ray Telepman Berkowitz & Cohen, focusing on complex Land Use & Zoning and Regulated Industries.

Jeffrey C. Lynne, Esq.

Founder · Lynne Legal, P.A. — Boca Raton, FL

Jeffrey C. Lynne is the Founder of Lynne Legal, P.A. and a Florida attorney with nearly three decades of experience focused on complex land use, zoning, and regulated industries. He represents property owners, businesses, developers, operators, and other clients in local, state, and federal zoning, permitting, licensing, regulatory, and related litigation matters. His practice includes significant work within Florida's multi-billion-dollar behavioral health industry.

Land Use & Zoning Behavioral Health Environmental & Land Use Real Estate Law Licensing & Regulatory Matters Litigation

Credentials: The Florida Bar, admitted 1997 — Bar No. 116556.

Education: University of Miami School of Law, J.D., With Honors (1997); University of Florida, With Honors (1993).

Office: 301 E. Yamato Road, Suite 4120, Boca Raton, FL 33431 · (561) 791-4368

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The ‘not in my backyard’ barrier stalling California’s addiction treatment buildout

Jeffrey Lynne

Jeffrey C. Lynne, Esq.

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