US voters weigh data-center restrictions and oversight

AI · First reported 2 Nov, 18:58 · Updated 19:34

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

More than 40 data-center-related measures are on ballots across the United States, with proposals ranging from bans and project reviews to taxpayer approval requirements. A separate Arkansas vote is scheduled for December, while Texas has paused permits pending a power-grid risk audit.

At least 40 jurisdictions are voting on data-center-related measures; a separate report says voters in 10 states will decide on AI data-center restrictions.
Proposals described include outright bans, expanded public participation in planning, and taxpayer votes on costly projects.
Ohio has the largest concentration of measures in the Washington Post excerpt, which says 18 cities and towns will consider data-center-related proposals.
In Harwood, North Dakota, a ballot amendment would require disclosure, independent review, and public participation for a proposed 280-megawatt project.
Clarksville, Arkansas, voters are due to decide in December on $55 billion in bond ordinances for a data center; Texas has withheld permits pending an audit of power-grid risks.

Summary written by Lux AI from 3 articles

Key facts

Ballot measures: More than 40 data-center-related measures are reported for the election cycle.
Ohio: 18 cities and towns are reported to be considering measures.
Harwood project: The proposed project is 280 megawatts.
Janesville threshold: The measure concerns projects costing at least $450 million.
Clarksville vote: The December vote concerns $55 billion in bond ordinances.