Heckert talks highlights from Southern Legislative Conference
Wood County Delegate Scot Heckert returned from the Southern Legislative Conference, where data centers were a heavily discussed topic alongside grid reliability and economic development. Heckert noted a contradiction in constituent views, where they desire the revenue from data centers but oppose having them nearby. He emphasized the importance of an open mind when considering policies from other states for West Virginia.
Wood County Delegate Scot Heckert recently returned from the 80th annual Southern Legislative Conference, an event that convened approximately 1,500 to 1,800 lawmakers and policymakers from over a dozen states. According to Heckert, the conference agenda encompassed a range of critical issues including grid reliability, artificial intelligence, economic development, healthcare, education, and public safety.
Heckert highlighted that data centers emerged as one of the most frequently discussed topics during the conference, with lawmakers debating their merits and drawbacks. He observed a prevailing sentiment among his constituents in West Virginia: a desire for the economic benefits and revenue generated by data centers, yet a strong opposition to their physical presence in local areas.
The delegate emphasized the value of comparing legislative approaches with other states, while cautioning that no single solution is universally applicable. He stressed the need for an open mind in evaluating policies from other states, acknowledging that what works elsewhere might not directly translate to West Virginia, and vice versa. Heckert, who lost his primary election this year, stated his intention to continue advocating for Wood County communities using his experience and relationships.