Gov. Hochul takes fight against data centers to Long Island
Governor Hochul has implemented a one-year statewide moratorium on new large data center permits in New York, citing the need to develop responsible regulations. The executive order will allow the state to study and address potential impacts on the environment, electric grid, and water resources. The decision faces political opposition from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who argues it hinders economic growth.
Governor Kathy Hochul visited Long Island, specifically Babylon, to advocate for her recently signed executive order imposing a one-year statewide moratorium on new large data center permits in New York. The order aims to allow state regulators time to develop comprehensive standards addressing the environmental impacts, energy demands, and water usage associated with these facilities, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence. Hochul emphasized the state's responsibility to prevent rising utility costs for New Yorkers due to data center expansion, noting the new rules would require operators to secure their own power and water, pay higher rates for grid access, and mandate union labor while barring tax breaks.
The moratorium faces criticism from Republican rival Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive, who labeled it a "mistake" that signals the state is "waving the white flag" to tech-haters. Blakeman argues that data centers are crucial for job creation and the state's economic competitiveness, referencing the rapidly growing AI industry. While state lawmakers had approved their own moratorium bill, Hochul's office stated her executive order would take immediate effect due to flaws in the legislative measure. The debate highlights a divide between environmental and consumer protection concerns and economic development interests regarding the future of data center growth in New York.