Data center moratorium may come up in the next legislative session
Several New Mexico state lawmakers plan to introduce a state-wide moratorium on data center development during the 2027 Legislative Session. The proposal stems from concerns over 'Project Jupiter' in Doña Ana County, citing a lack of transparency and accountability. The moratorium aims to establish appropriate parameters for data center operations in New Mexico.
Representatives Micaela Lara Cadena and Angelica Rubio, both from Doña Ana County, presented a plan for a state-wide data center moratorium to the New Mexico State Legislature's Science, Technology and Telecommunications Committee. Joined by Representative Eleanor Chávez and Senator Carrie Hamblen, they intend to introduce the moratorium during the 2027 Legislative Session, citing the need to 'pump the brakes' on data center development in New Mexico.
The push for a moratorium is largely fueled by the controversial 'Project Jupiter' in Doña Ana County, which Representative Rubio described as a "betrayal" due to a perceived lack of transparency and accountability. Representative Lara Cadena emphasized that a moratorium would allow the state to establish proper guidelines for data center accountability, transparency, and economic impact, questioning the true benefits for local communities.
Conversely, Representative Joshua Hernandez argued against a moratorium, asserting that data centers are essential infrastructure for storing digital content. He suggested that New Mexico should instead focus on creating a clear framework with parameters for issues like water use and transparency, rather than falling behind other states in attracting investments. Sierra and Santa Fe Counties in New Mexico have already implemented data center moratoriums, joining other states like Maine, New York, and Delaware that have taken similar actions.