Missouri lawmakers propose water and power usage requirements for data centers

Missouri lawmakers have proposed new legislation that would impose requirements on electricity and water usage for data centers in the state. The bill, called the AI Infrastructure, Grid Integrity and Water Resource Protection Act, would require large data centers to pay for infrastructure upgrades to the electric grid and seek permits from the Department of Natural Resources for high water usage. The sponsors, Representatives Colin Wellenkamp and Mike Costlow, say the goal is to protect utility rates and water resources for Missouri residents as the state attracts more data center development. Cities like St. Charles have enacted moratoriums on data centers as they grapple with the impacts on infrastructure and resources.