Poll: Should The Wyoming Legislature Meet In A Special Session On Data Centers?
A special session of the Wyoming Legislature is being considered in 2026 to address concerns about data centers, specifically their water and electricity usage, land use, and infrastructure impacts. This discussion follows Governor Mark Gordon's executive order, "Data Centers The Wyoming Way," which some lawmakers, like Sen. Cheri Steinmetz, believe fast-tracks development without sufficient legislative oversight. Opponents of the special session argue the issues are local or accuse critics of spreading misinformation.
The rapid growth of data centers in Wyoming has prompted discussions about a special session of the state's Legislature in 2026. This comes as some lawmakers express concerns about the facilities' demands on water, electricity, land use, and infrastructure.
Rep. Daniel Singh clarified that the proposed session would not be for a statewide moratorium but would focus on state statutes related to large electrical generation, water issues, and infrastructure. Sen. Cheri Steinmetz is advocating for the special session, particularly after Governor Mark Gordon issued an executive order titled "Data Centers The Wyoming Way." Steinmetz argues that the governor's order prioritizes fast-tracking data center development over addressing growing public concerns and bypassing the Legislature's role in setting public policy.
Proponents of the special session believe the issues are urgent and cannot wait until the next legislative meeting in January 2027, citing a perceived lack of public consideration by local governments focused on tax revenues. Conversely, opponents view the matter as a local rather than a state issue, or accuse data center critics of presenting exaggerated, emotionally-driven arguments. Some also suspect the timing, in an election year, might be driven by political posturing.