State senator introduces data center moratorium bill
State Sen. Russet Perry has introduced legislation that would pause state and local approval of new data centers in Virginia beginning July 1, 2027, for three years. Supporters cite strain on the electric grid, utility bills, water resources, pollution and transmission infrastructure, while the Data Center Coalition warns a moratorium could drive investment and jobs to other states.
Virginia state Sen. Russet Perry, a Democrat from Loudoun, has proposed a three-year moratorium on approvals for new data centers by Virginia localities and the state. The pause would begin July 1, 2027, if approved by the General Assembly. Perry said the state needs to address the effects of existing facilities before allowing additional construction.
Republican state Sen. Glenn Sturdivant also supports a moratorium, citing concerns about pollution, siting, water use, transmission lines, grid capacity and rising electricity costs. The Data Center Coalition, through Virginia government affairs director Nicole Riley, opposed the idea, warning that it could cause jurisdictions to lose long-term investment, high-paying jobs and tax revenue to neighboring states. Gov. Abigail Spanberger has instead announced a data center accountability framework that does not call for a moratorium.