Maine State House fails to override governor’s veto on data center moratorium

The Maine State House failed to override Governor Janet Mills' veto of LD 307, a bill aimed at temporarily banning large data center development in Maine. The vote of 72 to 65 fell short of the two-thirds majority needed to overturn the veto, with the vote largely splitting along party lines. Supporters of the bill expressed concerns over potential environmental impacts, including damage to fresh water resources, and the possibility of increased energy costs. They also argued that municipalities needed more time to establish their own regulations for data center projects. However, opponents and Governor Mills emphasized the potential for job creation and tax revenue, especially for rural communities. Governor Mills had specifically noted that the bill should have included an exemption for a proposed project at the former Androscoggin paper mill in Jay. Following the vote, Governor Mills signed an executive order to establish a Data Center Advisory Council. This council will be tasked with making recommendations on large-scale data centers to protect ratepayers and minimize environmental impacts across the state.