Maryland jurisdictions pause data center development | NBC4 Washington
Prince George's County is debating a two-year moratorium on data center development, following a public rally and concerns over environmental and health impacts. Meanwhile, Frederick County has enacted a six-month pause on new data center applications via executive order, after a petition for a referendum was rejected by the state's Supreme Court. A state report on data center impacts is anticipated in September.
Three jurisdictions in Maryland are either pausing or planning to pause data center development to gather more information on potential environmental, health, and cost impacts. In Prince George's County, a rally was held against data center development, advocating for a ban after a previous six-month ban expired. County Council Chair Crystal Arielle introduced legislation proposing a two-year moratorium on new data center development, citing many unknowns regarding its consequences. A vote on this proposed moratorium is expected soon.
In Frederick County, County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced and signed an executive order for a six-month pause on new data center applications. This action came shortly after the Supreme Court of Maryland rejected a petition, signed by over 20,000 residents and led by Elizabeth Bauer, that aimed to send the question of data center development directly to county voters through a referendum.
Elizabeth Bauer, while pleased with the pause, expressed a desire for earlier action and is now focusing on electing candidates who oppose data center development. She highlighted that the referendum process was initiated because citizens felt ignored by their county council for five years. Both counties await a state report on data center energy, environmental, and financial impacts, which is due in September.