Illinois Governor Pritzker Not Pursuing Statewide Data Center Moratorium; Chicago Mayor Proposed Local Ban
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced he would not pursue a statewide data center moratorium, instead advocating for local community input and awaiting passage of the POWER Act to impose regulations. This statement follows Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's proposal for a data center moratorium specifically for his city.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced his administration would not pursue a statewide moratorium on new data centers. Governor Pritzker indicated he is awaiting the passage of the "POWER Act" by state lawmakers after the November election, which he stated would implement stringent regulations on data center facilities. He also emphasized the importance of local communities having a voice in data center placement within the state.
Pritzker's comments follow a recent proposal by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson earlier this week for a data center moratorium specifically within the city of Chicago. The governor's decision signals a preference for regulatory oversight via legislation and local control over a broad, statewide pause on development.