Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Addresses Data Center Moratorium Calls

News Clip0:27Forbes Breaking News·Lancaster County, PA·8/18/2026

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was asked about backing a data center moratorium, proposed by Senator Malone and local leaders. He responded by emphasizing his recent executive order, which implements stringent legal requirements for data center developers in the state. The Governor indicated that companies unwilling to comply with these grid-related rules are not welcome in Pennsylvania.

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Gov: Gov. Josh Shapiro, Senator Malone, local leaders

During a press conference on Tuesday, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was questioned about his stance on a data center moratorium. The inquiry followed comments from Senator Malone and various local leaders in Lancaster County, who had publicly supported the option of a moratorium for municipalities in the region.

Governor Shapiro did not directly endorse the moratorium proposal. Instead, he highlighted an executive order he had signed, which he described as establishing "the most stringent legal requirements in the entire country" for data center development.

Shapiro stated that his administration is "setting out clear rules of the road" for developers. He issued a firm warning, indicating that if companies do not adhere to these new regulations, particularly concerning grid compliance, "we don't want your business. We don't want you here. You should look elsewhere." This suggests a focus on regulatory enforcement and grid stability rather than an outright ban.