New York State Legislature passes data center moratorium bill

News Clip0:37WGRZ-TV·NY·6/5/2026

New York State lawmakers have passed a bill, the Responsible Data Center Development Act, that would impose a one-year moratorium on new data center permits. The bill also requires utilities to classify large data centers, sets energy efficiency goals, and provides benefits for host communities. It is now awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul's signature.

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Gov: New York State Legislature, New York State Assembly, New York State Senate, Governor Kathy Hochul

The New York State Legislature has passed the Responsible Data Center Development Act, sending the bill to Governor Kathy Hochul's desk. The proposed legislation aims to implement a temporary halt on new data center developments across the state.

Lawmakers indicate that the bill would establish a one-year moratorium on the state's issuance of new data center permits. Additionally, it mandates that utility companies create an independent service classification specifically for large data centers. The act also outlines energy efficiency goals for data centers and includes provisions for benefits to be provided to communities hosting these facilities.