Data center moratorium bills reflect public sentiment, says Michigan lawmaker
News ClipPlanet Detroit·MI·3/2/2026
Michigan lawmakers have introduced bipartisan legislation to enact a one-year moratorium on data center development in the state. The goal is to give the state time to study the impact of data centers on power demands, infrastructure, and the environment before approving new projects. However, the governor's office has indicated it will oppose any legislation seen as hindering economic development and job creation.
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Gov: Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Michigan Public Service Commission, Michigan Legislature
Michigan lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to impose a one-year moratorium on data center developments in the state. The legislation aims to allow time to study the best locations for data centers and how the state will meet their significant power demands. State Rep. Jennifer Wortz and State Rep. Dylan Wegela cite concerns over data centers' environmental impact, effects on ratepayers, and potential job losses from AI automation. While the moratorium faces opposition from state leadership, some Michigan communities have already enacted their own data center moratoriums to develop local regulations. Environmental groups advocate for an even longer statewide moratorium to thoroughly assess the cumulative impacts of data center projects on energy and water resources.