Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor calls for statewide data center moratorium
A Democratic nominee for Lieutenant Governor in Texas is advocating for a statewide moratorium on new data center approvals. The nominee cites concerns over rising electric bills, water usage, and environmental impacts, urging a special legislative session to implement safeguards and regulations. This initiative aims to address the perceived "data center crisis" and prevent the subsidization of large corporations at the expense of Texans.
A Democratic nominee for Lieutenant Governor in Texas has called for a statewide moratorium on the approval of new data centers, citing a "data center crisis" in the state. The nominee, running against Republican incumbent Dan Patrick, emphasized the need for a special legislative session to address concerns raised by Texans regarding the industry's impact.
According to the nominee, the rapid expansion of data centers is leading to increased electric bills for families and straining water resources for ranchers and farmers. The nominee also highlighted environmental and infrastructure costs, suggesting that communities are bearing these burdens without adequate input. The call for a pause aims to allow time for public consultation and the establishment of "real safeguards" to protect communities, ensure transparency, and prevent costs from being passed onto households.
The nominee further argued that Texans should not be asked to subsidize "billion-dollar corporations" through tax dollars, higher utility bills, or the depletion of essential water resources. The proposed regulations would prioritize "people before profits" and work to secure the state's water, energy, and land for future generations, also considering the implications of artificial intelligence, including potential job loss.