Byron Donalds backs AI Bill of Rights, a priority of Ron DeSantis
Byron Donalds, a Republican gubernatorial nominee, has pledged to implement an AI Bill of Rights and cap hyperscale data centers in Florida based on available power grid surplus if elected. He also advocates for specific data center policies, including the use of reclaimed water and developer responsibility for utility costs, while opposing moratoriums. This stance comes amidst significant public opposition to data centers in the state.
Byron Donalds, a leading Republican candidate for Governor of Florida, announced his commitment to advance an "AI Bill of Rights" and implement specific policies for data center development in the state, should he be elected. Speaking in Clearwater, Donalds stated his intention to reintroduce proposals for AI guardrails, similar to efforts previously stalled by Governor Ron DeSantis and House Speaker Daniel Perez.
Regarding data centers, Donalds proposed capping hyperscale facilities in Florida based on the state's five gigawatts of excess power on its electric grid, contrasting Florida's approach with Texas's extensive use of natural gas for data center power. He emphasized the need for "model policy" on data center construction, advocating for less resource-intensive builds, enhanced data security, and the use of small modular nuclear reactors and closed-loop water filtration systems. Donalds also expressed opposition to data center moratoriums, which he believes opponents like David Jolly propose due to a lack of understanding.
Donalds highlighted a recently signed law (SB 484) requiring data centers to cover their own utility services and infrastructure expenses, permitting the use of reclaimed water for cooling, and mandating water use plans for facilities exceeding 100,000 gallons per day. His expansive data center policy faces considerable public opposition, with new polling from the University of North Florida indicating 68% of Florida voters are against having a data center in their locality.