Texas Governor Abbott Vows Data Center Legislation

News Clip1:12KTSM 9 NEWS·Socorro, El Paso County, TX·8/6/2026

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has pledged to support legislation that would establish guidelines and guardrails for data centers, aiming to prevent their encroachment into residential neighborhoods across the state. The announcement was made during his visit to Socorro, Texas, with the proposed legislation intended for the upcoming legislative session.

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Gov: Gov. Greg Abbott, Texas Legislature

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced during a visit to Socorro, Texas, that he will back legislation aimed at setting "guidelines and guard rails" for data centers. The Governor stated the intent is to ensure data centers do not encroach on neighborhoods, whether in large cities or rural areas of Texas.

Erin Montes of KTSM9 News reported from Socorro, Texas, where Governor Abbott concluded his visit at a Tropicana Homes model home. Montes noted that the Governor discussed several initiatives he plans to call for in the upcoming legislative session, including lowering housing and medical costs. A key focus, however, was his commitment to addressing data centers, with the legislature expected to take up the issue next year. Montes also inquired about the November general election, but Governor Abbott declined to endorse a candidate in the District 23 race during his visit.