Public voices concerns over AI, data center discussions
Members of the public expressed concerns to North Dakota lawmakers regarding discussions about AI and data centers. Community members felt rushed on past projects and were unhappy with how a recent meeting was handled. State legislators are set to discuss a temporary ban on nondisclosure agreements and a temporary pause on new hyperscale data center permits, which a majority of North Dakotans reportedly support.
Members of the North Dakota public voiced concerns to a group of lawmakers tasked with examining the advantages and disadvantages of artificial intelligence and data centers. The discussion saw input from both industry leaders and everyday citizens.
Community members expressed frustration with the handling of the meeting by the Committee of Lawmakers, chaired by Jonathan Worry, particularly regarding special interest groups speaking before the public. Some residents also highlighted that certain data center projects felt rushed, citing an instance where a project went from public awareness to construction in less than three months.
State legislators are scheduled to convene in the Capitol later this week to deliberate a temporary ban on nondisclosure agreements for data centers and other industrial developments. There will also be a discussion on a temporary pause for new hyperscale data center permits, a measure reportedly supported by a majority of North Dakotans.
The executive director for the North Dakota Association of Counties addressed the special committee, emphasizing the critical role local governments play in determining the location, methods, and conditions under which data centers can be constructed.