PA Chamber proposes 'No Technology Pledge' for those supporting data center moratoriums
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry has proposed a "No Technology Pledge" for supporters of data center moratoriums, arguing broad bans harm economic growth. This comes amidst several legislative efforts by both Democrats and Republicans in the state to enact data center moratoriums. Governor Josh Shapiro has also signed an executive order removing data center proposals from fast-track permitting and implementing new requirements.
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry has introduced a "No Technology Pledge," urging individuals and lawmakers advocating for data center moratoriums to commit to not using the technology that relies on these facilities. Jon Anzur, the PA Chamber Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, described the pledge as a "commonsense accountability measure" for those seeking to block data center development in Pennsylvania.
This proposal emerges as Pennsylvania legislators from both parties are pursuing various moratoriums on data center construction. Senator Jarrett Coleman has proposed a 180-day moratorium to allow local governments more time to establish regulations, while Senator Katie Muth has introduced a bill calling for a three-year moratorium. Neither of these legislative efforts has yet received a full vote in the Pennsylvania Senate.
Adding to the regulatory landscape, Governor Josh Shapiro recently signed an executive order affecting data center development. This order notably removes all data center proposals in Pennsylvania from the fast-track permitting process. It also incorporates elements of his "Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development" (GRID) requirements, mandating that data centers provide their own electricity to prevent utility price increases for consumers and prohibiting state agencies from signing non-disclosure agreements with data center developers.
The PA Chamber argues that such broad moratoriums would impede economic growth, job creation, and the state's competitiveness, emphasizing that siting and permitting decisions should remain at the local level with community transparency. Conversely, proponents of data centers highlight their necessity for essential services like cloud computing and cybersecurity.