Dozens speak out against data centers in Michigan House committee hearing

The Michigan House Corporate Subsidies and State Investments subcommittee convened a hearing in Lansing, where a significant number of residents from across the state voiced strong opposition to data center development. Speakers cited concerns ranging from environmental impacts, such as water depletion and noise pollution, to the potential for job displacement due to artificial intelligence, with one legislator even comparing the issue to "more dangerous than nuclear bombs." Only two individuals had registered to speak in favor of data centers, but they did not attend the hearing. The Michigan for Responsible Data Centers coalition and Michigan Chamber of Commerce President Jim Holcomb later countered these concerns, emphasizing Michigan's existing regulations for responsible development and the economic investment opportunities that data centers present. They advocated for a fact-based approach to policy. Despite the robust discussion and legislators sharing some of the public's worries, the committee did not advance any specific pieces of legislation during the hearing, though some members indicated they are sponsoring bills.