Oregon Governor Tina Kotek orders statewide pause on new data center construction
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued a statewide order pausing all new data center development on state-owned property and through state agencies until July 1, 2027. This executive action aims to allow the state to evaluate the long-term impacts of data center growth on infrastructure, environment, water usage, and local communities. The pause does not affect projects already underway or development on private land, as the state currently lacks authority for a full statewide moratorium.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has ordered an immediate, statewide pause on new data center development involving state agencies and state-owned property. The executive order, issued on September 8, directs all state agencies to halt unapproved requests for easements, rights-of-way, leases, rentals, land use permits, and sales or transfers of state-owned property for data center projects. This pause is set to remain in effect through July 1, 2027, or until explicitly lifted by the Governor's office or the Oregon State Legislature.
Governor Kotek stated that the action is necessary to allow the state to thoroughly evaluate the long-term impacts of data center development, including effects on infrastructure capacity, environmental sustainability, water usage, job creation, and broader community ramifications. She emphasized the need for a statewide approach that protects natural resources and ensures government actions are in the public interest, citing concerns about the