State Rep. Pielli’s data center regulation bill passes state house
The Pennsylvania House passed legislation sponsored by State Rep. Chris Pielli that would bar data centers from obtaining public utility status. Pielli said the bill is intended to protect local zoning authority and prevent developers from using eminent domain; it now goes to the state Senate.
The Pennsylvania House approved H.B. 2674 by a bipartisan 202-1 vote. Sponsored by State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, the bill would prohibit data centers from receiving public utility status, which Pielli said could allow developers to override local zoning rules, exercise eminent domain and operate with regulated-monopoly powers.
Pielli also cited rising energy costs and the growth of data center construction and proposals in Pennsylvania as reasons for additional oversight. The legislation has passed the House and is pending consideration in the Pennsylvania Senate.