Hurry up and wait: Pa. lawmakers move quickly on bills to pause data-center construction

Pennsylvania lawmakers are making swift progress on legislation to allow local officials to pause data center construction, even as the state's budget remains unfunded. Two bills, one allowing a six-month pause and another an 18-month pause for municipalities to craft zoning regulations, unanimously cleared a Senate Committee after passing the state House.

Democrat Paul Friel, a proponent of local control and thoughtful planning, emphasized the need for legislation that can withstand legal challenges from the industry. State Sen. Jarett Coleman also advanced a similar measure. However, a proposal by Republican state Sen. Rosemary Brown for a mandatory three-year statewide moratorium failed, despite her district including Archbald, which is targeted for six data center campuses totaling 51 buildings.

Environmental activists, including Ginny Marcille-Kerslake of Food and Water Watch, have rallied for stricter controls and a three-year moratorium, highlighting community concerns about land, water, and energy use. They warn that the issue will be a key factor in November's elections. Conversely, the Pittsburgh Technology Council, led by Audrey Russo, urged Governor Josh Shapiro and legislative leaders to halt consideration of such rules, arguing that the AI infrastructure industry presents a significant economic opportunity for Pennsylvania, particularly in rural counties. Additionally, the House passed a bill to ban local governments from signing non-disclosure agreements with data center companies, a measure that garnered support from Allegheny County members but faced criticism as a "knee-jerk reaction" from Republicans like Josh Kail.