Abbott backs Texas data center restrictions, while Hinojosa calls for immediate action
Gov. Greg Abbott said he wants Texas lawmakers to codify restrictions on data centers next year, including requirements related to infrastructure costs, water-efficient cooling, consumption reporting and noise. Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa is urging faster action as residents raise concerns about data centers’ effects on neighborhoods, water supplies and the electric grid.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he wants the Legislature to turn his proposed data center guidelines into law in 2027. The measures would require facilities to pay for needed electrical infrastructure, use water-efficient cooling systems, disclose electricity and water consumption, limit noise and eliminate some tax incentives.
Abbott’s comments came as Democratic gubernatorial challenger Gina Hinojosa criticized him for not acting sooner, pointing to a data center that began operating in Dallas’ Joppa neighborhood. Abbott said state regulators have been ordered to halt permits while officials review the industry’s effects on the electric grid and water supplies, and he called for cities, counties and residents to have more authority over facility siting and operations.