Pielli Bill Would Block Utility Status for Data Centers
A Pennsylvania House committee unanimously advanced House Bill 2674, which would prevent data centers from obtaining public utility status. Sponsor Rep. Chris Pielli said the bill would preserve municipal zoning authority and prevent developers from using utility powers such as eminent domain.
The Pennsylvania House Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities Committee unanimously advanced House Bill 2674, sponsored by state Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester. The bill would bar data centers from receiving public utility status, which Pielli said could allow developers to preempt local zoning rules, use eminent domain and acquire property or rights-of-way for project infrastructure.
The legislation now moves to the full House and would need Senate approval to become law. The proposal comes as Pennsylvania lawmakers consider broader rules for data center development, including a separate measure allowing municipalities to temporarily pause applications while updating land-use ordinances. Pielli also cited rising electricity costs and the state’s growing number of existing and proposed data centers as reasons for legislative action.