Data center bills get bipartisan support

The Pennsylvania House has passed two bipartisan bills, HB 2150 and HB 2151, aimed at regulating data centers and providing protections for state residents. The legislation, supported by Mon Valley lawmakers including Eric Davanzo, Andrew Kuzma, John Inglis, and Dan Goughnour, addresses growing concerns about data center impacts due to increasing demand, particularly from AI. HB 2150 mandates annual reporting of water and electricity usage by data center operators to the state, with a $10,000 daily fine for non-compliance. HB 2151 directs the Local Government Commission to develop model ordinances, offering municipalities a framework for managing data center development, especially given that many communities currently lack specific zoning regulations for such projects. Representative Davanzo stated that the bills offer a "common sense approach to protecting the public while allowing this industry to grow responsibly" by closing gaps in statewide consumer and safety protections and ensuring local trades workers' involvement. Representative Kuzma emphasized the importance of local control over data center placement to mitigate negative impacts like neighborhood disturbance or increased energy prices. The legislation reflects public sentiment, with a Pew Research Center survey indicating public concern over data centers' environmental and energy costs, alongside recognition of their economic benefits. These bills will now proceed to the state Senate for further consideration.