Maine Gov. Vetoes Bill That Would Have Blocked Construction Of Data Centers

Maine Governor Janet Mills has vetoed a bill that would have imposed a temporary moratorium on new data center construction statewide. The Governor, a Democrat, expressed concerns that the legislation would negatively impact an active data center project in the town of Jay, a community facing economic challenges following the closure of the Androscoggin Mill in 2023. In a Friday statement, Gov. Mills highlighted the significant economic benefits of the Jay data center project, noting it is under contract and has already secured several permits. She stated that the development is projected to generate over 800 construction jobs, at least 100 permanent high-paying positions, and substantial property tax revenue for the town. Furthermore, the project developers are reportedly committed to revitalizing the mill site by leveraging its existing industrial buildings and infrastructure for water and electricity, thereby aiming to mitigate potential adverse impacts, including those on ratepayers. Despite the veto, Governor Mills affirmed her intent to establish a state council dedicated to analyzing the broader effects of data centers in Maine, an initiative that was initially proposed within the vetoed legislation. Additionally, she announced the signing of a different bill designed to prevent data center projects from accessing the state's business development tax incentive program.