Voters in 10 States Reject or Restrict Data Center Development in Ballot Measures
Voters in at least 33 municipalities across 10 states rejected or restricted data center development in 2026 ballot measures. Several communities approved bans, including a Kansas measure prohibiting high-impact data centers for 10 years, while voters in Harwood, North Dakota, rejected restrictions.
Voters considered 41 data center-related ballot initiatives across California, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin. At least 33 municipalities voted to keep data centers out, and at least six approved measures banning construction or halting planned facilities. Harwood, North Dakota, was the only locality identified as supporting the industry by voting against restrictions.
Ohio accounted for most of the ballot activity as technology and AI companies seek locations with inexpensive land, abundant resources and available power. In Kansas, voters adopted particularly strict measures, including a 10-year ban on high-impact data centers using more than 100,000 gallons of water per day. The results reflect growing public opposition to data center water and power demands, with additional votes scheduled in Arkansas and North Dakota.