Data center protesters fill Missouri Capitol demanding a statewide construction freeze
Around 200 people protested at the Missouri Capitol demanding a statewide moratorium on hyperscale data center construction. They also advocated for health and environmental protections, transparency, community involvement, and an end to tax incentives for these projects. Despite these calls and previous legislative hearings, the Missouri legislature has not yet acted on data center legislation.
Around 200 protesters gathered at the Missouri Capitol rotunda to demand a statewide moratorium on the construction of hyperscale data centers. The rally, held during the annual veto session, also called for environmental and health protections, an end to tax incentives for data centers, and greater transparency and community involvement in such projects. Speakers, including Gabe Cotton from Festus, highlighted concerns about irresponsible development and emphasized the importance of a democratic voice in the process, noting that Festus voters had previously ousted city council members supportive of data centers.
Despite repeated calls from residents and a House hearing last year, the Missouri legislature has not yet taken action on data center legislation. Governor Mike Kehoe has publicly supported data center development in the state, contrasting with the protesters' demands. While some lawmakers acknowledge the need for discussion, others believe data center decisions should remain at the local government level. The future of data center legislation in the upcoming 2027 session remains uncertain.