Facing data center backlash, Moore lays out a plan but not a pause
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore issued an executive order to establish uniform standards for data center reviews, create a task force, and launch a project tracking dashboard. The plan aims to protect the environment and taxpayers while addressing growing concerns about data center expansion. Moore also pledged to work with lawmakers to repeal a broad tax exemption for data centers.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore announced a data center policy plan through an executive order, aiming to safeguard Marylanders' finances and the environment amidst increasing concerns over data center growth. The plan includes establishing uniform review standards, creating a task force within the governor's office for decision-making, and launching a dashboard to track projects across the state.
Moore also committed to collaborating with lawmakers to repeal a 2020 tax exemption for data centers, which a watchdog group reported cost the state $22 million in 2026 alone. While Moore's plan stops short of a statewide pause, a measure advocated by many critics, he has indicated he would sign such legislation if passed by the General Assembly, which is expected to consider moratorium bills in the upcoming session.
The announcement comes as data center expansion has become a significant political issue, with several counties, including Harford County, already enacting various moratoriums. Other states, such as New York, Texas, Virginia, and California, have also moved to implement stricter data center policies or development pauses.