Jawando introduces bill to implement two-year moratorium on data center permits

Councilmember Will Jawando (D-At-large) has introduced legislation in Montgomery County, Maryland, proposing a two-year moratorium on data center building permits. The bill, co-sponsored by Councilmember Kristin Mink (D-Dist. 5) and supported by environmental groups like the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, aims to provide the county council with sufficient time to establish robust standards for data center development, particularly regarding clean energy commitments. Jawando highlighted concerns about data centers built "without guardrails" and accountability during a press conference in Rockville. Separately, Councilmember Evan Glass (D-At-large) introduced his own bill for a six-month moratorium on data center development. While both councilmembers agree on the need for a pause, they disagree on the duration and the potential retroactive impact on pending projects. A significant point of contention is Atmosphere Data Centers' planned 300-megawatt campus at a former coal-fired power plant site in Dickerson. Jawando believes his longer moratorium is necessary to affect this large project, while Glass is committed to amending his bill to ensure it applies retroactively. County Executive Marc Elrich (D) has expressed skepticism about the necessity of a moratorium, citing developers' rights, a stance echoed by an attorney for Atmosphere Data Centers. Councilmember Andrew Friedson (D-Dist. 1) has not supported either moratorium bill but favors proposed amendments to a data center zoning text amendment, including provisions for carbon emissions. Public hearings for both moratorium bills are scheduled for June 16, indicating active legislative debate on the future of data center development in Montgomery County.