State lawmakers hear data center concerns from across Kentucky at Frankfort ‘listening session’
More than 60 Kentuckians raised concerns about hyperscale data centers during a legislative listening session in Frankfort, citing farmland loss, water demands, electricity costs, tax incentives and limited local transparency. Lawmakers said they are considering legislation addressing ratepayer protections, environmental reviews and data center tax breaks, while some speakers called for a statewide moratorium or ban.
More than 60 residents from communities across Kentucky told lawmakers at a Frankfort listening session that hyperscale data center development could threaten farmland, historic sites, horse farms and water resources. Speakers also demanded stronger protections for utility customers, greater transparency in local approvals and independent environmental and infrastructure studies. Most opposed further construction, with some calling for a statewide moratorium or outright ban.
Rep. Adam Moore, D-Lexington, organized the session and said he wants legislation addressing ratepayer, environmental and transparency concerns before additional hyperscale projects proceed. Rep. Vanessa Grossl, R-Georgetown, said she regretted supporting House Bill 775, which created statewide data center tax breaks, and indicated lawmakers may revisit the incentives. Moore and Rep. Josh Bray, R-Mount Vernon, are working on data center-related legislation ahead of the next session, while one speaker, Fayette County resident Martin Rivers, argued that data centers and artificial intelligence could benefit the state.