Cox pushes MIDA reforms after data center blowup
Utah Governor Spencer Cox is advocating for reforms to the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) following significant public backlash against a data center project by Stratus. The proposed changes aim to implement stricter environmental standards, particularly regarding water usage with closed-loop systems, and enhance public participation in the approval process. State legislative leaders are also planning to introduce bills to regulate data center development across Utah.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox is pushing for substantial reforms to the state's Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) after a data center project, reportedly developed by Stratus, faced widespread public opposition. The governor emphasized the necessity for these changes, noting that he had proposed similar legislation a year and a half prior, which unfortunately did not pass.
The proposed reforms aim to strengthen environmental protections by making closed-loop water systems a mandatory standard for data centers and to ensure a more transparent public process for project approvals. Governor Cox expressed confidence that he would receive support for these reforms, indicating that similar efforts by legislative counterparts are underway.
Adding to the push for regulation, Speaker of the House Brad Wilson confirmed his intention to introduce bills in the Utah State Legislature concerning data center development. Wilson voiced a sentiment shared by many, stating, "we don't want a state full of them," highlighting a broader legislative desire to manage the industry's growth within the state.