Pennsylvania Lawmakers, Activists Hold Town Hall on Data Center Proposals, Seek Oversight

News Clip3:04The Center Square·PA·5/14/2026

Frustration over secretive data center proposals in Pennsylvania has led to a virtual town hall involving lawmakers and activists calling for stricter oversight. Governor Josh Shapiro has defended AI-related growth but declined to engage with the organizers directly.

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Gov: Governor Shapiro, Pennsylvania lawmakers, Gov. Josh Shapiro's office
The Center Square reported on several "quick hits" across America, including a segment on data center development in Pennsylvania. Lawmakers and activists are planning a virtual town hall to address the frustration, secrecy, and perceived chaos surrounding new data center proposals in the state. They are criticizing developers and advocating for stricter oversight of these projects. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has publicly supported "responsible AI-related growth" but has chosen not to directly engage with the organizers of the town hall, according to the report. The discussion in Pennsylvania mirrors broader national conversations about the expansion of artificial intelligence and the need for potential regulations or continued growth.