Wyoming State Senator Interested In Special Session To Address Data Centers

Wyoming State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz has requested a poll among state legislators to gauge support for a special session focused exclusively on data center issues, including large industrial electrical loads, water resources, electric grid impacts, and associated infrastructure. Her request follows Gov. Mark Gordon's executive order directing state agencies to implement transparent constraints on data center development while also highlighting Wyoming's suitability for such projects due to its energy production and business-friendly environment.

Steinmetz expressed concern that Gordon's order might fast-track development without adequate legislative oversight, particularly regarding water usage, and stressed the need for thorough vetting to ensure benefits for Wyoming citizens, not just developers. Senate President Bo Biteman, however, deemed a special session premature, arguing that Gordon's order reinforces agencies' existing roles in regulating water, protecting ratepayers, and managing wildlife impacts. He suggested that if legislative gaps are found, proposals should be brought to the regularly scheduled 2027 session.

Gov. Gordon's spokeswoman, Amy Edmonds, reiterated the governor's stance against a special session, stating it would be disruptive and premature given that multiple interim legislative committees are already addressing data center development questions ahead of the next session. She emphasized reliance on the "Wyoming Way framework" outlined in the executive order.

Meanwhile, local communities have experienced varied outcomes regarding data center proposals. The Cheyenne City Council recently rejected a proposed moratorium on data center development, despite significant public testimony. In contrast, the Uinta County Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended permit approvals for a 1.25-gigawatt data center in Evanston. The Northern Arapaho Tribe received a $50,000 grant to study a data center on the Wind River Indian Reservation, sparking indignation among some tribal members. Additionally, the Converse County Commission's attempt to create a special industrial park for data centers failed due to the lack of an existing zoning system. Microsoft Senior Director of Infrastructure Government Affairs Jonathan Noble previously testified before a legislative committee, highlighting data centers as critical infrastructure while acknowledging the need for responsible development and water conservation measures.