Baumgartner bill targets utility costs tied to Spokane data centers
Congressman Michael Baumgartner introduced the "Power and Water for Families Act" to ensure data centers cover utility costs and to offer tax incentives for sustainable development. This legislation coincides with the Spokane City Council's decision to enact a one-year moratorium on data center development within city limits.
U.S. Congressman Michael Baumgartner has introduced new legislation, titled the "Power and Water for Families Act," which aims to mandate that large data centers and other high-load facilities fully cover the costs of the power and water systems necessary to serve them. The proposed bill also includes provisions for tax incentives, such as tax credits for water reuse and on-site recycling projects, to promote more responsible development practices.
This federal legislative initiative comes at a time when local officials in Spokane, Washington, are also taking action regarding data center development. The Spokane City Council recently passed an ordinance, enacting a one-year moratorium on the construction of new data centers within the city's boundaries.