Illinois gubernatorial candidate proposes data center policy reforms

Illinois gubernatorial candidate Collin Corbett has outlined a "commonsense path forward" for data centers in the state, critiquing what he describes as extreme stances from incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker and fellow candidate Darren Bailey. Corbett argues that Pritzker's approach, which has provided up to $1 billion in tax breaks since 2019, lacked sufficient safeguards for Illinoisans, risking water supplies and the electrical grid, despite Pritzker recently pausing new tax incentive agreements. Conversely, Bailey's proposal to ban the industry entirely is dismissed as ignoring potential economic benefits and increased energy rates from data centers locating in neighboring states.

Corbett's strategy emphasizes transparency, calling for an end to perpetual nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) in negotiations, mandatory public hearings during the zoning process, and public reporting of energy and water usage, supported by State Sen. Steve Stadelman’s S.B. 2181. He also advocates for data centers to fully bear the costs of their energy and grid infrastructure, proposing a "bring your own generation" model focused on renewables and advanced energy sources. To address environmental concerns, Corbett suggests making closed-loop and modern cooling systems standard, with incentives for using treated wastewater.

Further proposals include requiring data centers to negotiate binding community benefit agreements with local governments and contribute to a state property tax relief fund. He highlights the need to respect neighboring communities, referencing a dispute in Hoffman Estates and citing GOP State Sen. Darby Hills’ S.B. 1050, which would grant surrounding towns a voice in development decisions. Finally, Corbett suggests reforming Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) to reduce legal liability for data facilities, aiming to attract top-tier developers capable of meeting strict environmental, energy, and community standards.