Gov. Kotek pauses data centers on state land. Capitol demonstrators want her to go further

Gov. Tina Kotek announced a one-year pause on new data center developments on state-owned land or in state buildings, effective until July 1, 2027. The order immediately halts approvals for requests related to easements, rights-of-way, leases, land-use permits, and sales or transfers of state property for data center projects. This action, unveiled at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem, signifies a significant executive intervention in data center expansion, though Governor Kotek stated the state currently lacks authority for a broader statewide moratorium.

The announcement was made amidst a demonstration by roughly 100 people, including a coalition of environmental, public health, farm, and social advocacy groups like Food & Water Watch, Oregon Rural Action, and Columbia Riverkeeper. These groups are pushing for a more extensive three-year statewide moratorium on data center development through their proposed "Responsible Data Center Development Act." Demonstrators urged Governor Kotek to declare a state of emergency to stop further development, highlighting a desire for stronger state action.

The issue of data center development has become a central point of debate in Oregon, influencing legislative discussions and the gubernatorial race. A recent meeting of the House Interim Climate, Energy, and Environment Committee addressed concerns regarding tax revenues, exemptions, and the substantial energy and water consumption of data centers. The Governor's Data Center Advisory Committee, tasked with assessing the costs and benefits, has also adjusted its reporting timeline, now expecting to provide preliminary findings soon and final recommendations by year-end. Previously, Governor Kotek intervened to block a data center proposed on state-owned Department of Corrections land in Salem.