Gov. Kotek pauses data centers on state land but capitol demonstrators want her to go further
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek enacted a roughly one-year pause on new data center development on state-owned land and in state buildings. This action came as approximately 100 demonstrators gathered at the State Capitol, advocating for a broader three-year statewide moratorium on data center construction.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek announced a one-year moratorium on new data center development on state-owned land and within state buildings, effective until July 1, 2027, or until further legislative action. This directive mandates state agencies to immediately halt work on any state-owned land transactions connected to new data center projects across Oregon.
The Governor's announcement followed a demonstration by roughly 100 people at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem, comprising environmental, public health, farm, and social advocacy groups. These demonstrators called for a more extensive three-year statewide pause on data center development, backing the proposed Responsible Data Center Development Act. Governor Kotek expressed support for a moratorium but stated that the state currently lacks the authority for a comprehensive statewide ban.
Data centers have become a contentious issue in Oregon, raising concerns about energy and water consumption, as well as significant property tax exemptions, estimated to be around $450 million this year. The House Interim Climate, Energy, and Environment Committee recently held a packed session discussing these issues. Governor Kotek's Data Center Advisory Committee, tasked with analyzing the costs and benefits of data centers, has adjusted its reporting timeline and is expected to provide recommendations by year-end.