State Sen. Zellner introduces data center moratorium bill in Albany
State Sen. Zellner has introduced a bill in New York to impose a three-year moratorium on new high-powered data centers statewide. The legislation is driven by community concerns in Tonawanda regarding a proposed $2 billion data center's impact on the environment, electricity bills, and noise. A public hearing on the Tonawanda project is scheduled as lawmakers debate the bill.
Lawmakers representing Western New York and Albany have introduced a bill to implement a three-year moratorium on the approval of new high-powered data centers across New York State. State Senator Jeremy Zellner and State Assemblyman John Rivera are sponsoring the legislation, which, if passed, would impact projects like the controversial $2 billion data center proposed for the former Coke plant site in the town of Tonawanda.
Senator Zellner stated that concerns from Tonawanda residents regarding environmental impacts, electricity bills, and noise are shared by other communities statewide where data centers have become contentious issues. He emphasized the need for more information and accountability, especially with the legislative session concluding on Thursday. Tonawanda Supervisor Flynn has also expressed deep concerns about the proposal.
A public hearing for the proposed Tonawanda Data Center is scheduled for the following day. While State Senator Patrick Gallivan agrees that data center construction requires careful planning and management, his spokesperson indicated that he does not believe a moratorium is currently warranted.