California Legislature Approves Data Center Water Disclosure Bills for Governor's Review
California lawmakers have approved two bills (AB 2469 and AB 2619) requiring data center developers to disclose water usage plans and cover infrastructure costs, with the measures now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's signature. This legislative effort aims to increase transparency amidst growing public and political opposition to data centers' environmental impact, especially concerning water and electricity consumption. Newsom had vetoed a similar bill last year, but proponents argue public sentiment has shifted.
The California State Legislature has passed Assembly Bill 2469 and Assembly Bill 2619, which aim to increase transparency regarding data center water usage. Authored by Assemblymember Diane Papan of San Mateo, AB 2469 would require developers to disclose water plans and cover infrastructure costs before local governments can approve new or expanded data centers. AB 2619 mandates data center operators to report estimated or actual water sources and usage under penalty of perjury when seeking or renewing business licenses.
Both bills are now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's signature. Newsom previously vetoed a nearly identical bill from Papan last year, citing concerns about the impact on businesses and consumers. However, proponents argue that public sentiment has shifted, with growing bipartisan opposition to data centers due to their environmental impacts, particularly concerning water and electricity consumption.
Recent developments include Monterey Park and Coachella City Council approving permanent data center bans, and the Tulare County Board of Supervisors considering moratoriums. The Data Center Coalition opposes the bills, arguing that water reporting requirements should apply to all commercial and industrial users, not just data centers. Associations representing California cities and counties also expressed opposition, fearing the bills undermine local governments' authority. Santa Clara Valley Water District, however, supports the legislation, emphasizing the need for data to plan for water needs in data center hotspots. Experts like Michael Kiparsky from UC Berkeley stress the necessity of such bills but also call for state support for small communities to analyze the disclosed data.