New Jersey AFL-CIO opposes Rep. Frank Pallone's call for data center moratorium
Congressman Frank Pallone has called for a moratorium on new data center construction in the US. The New Jersey State AFL-CIO has issued an open letter opposing this policy, citing concerns about job losses for union members and the need for balanced policy making regarding resource allocation like electricity and water. They urge him to reconsider his position and work with stakeholders.
The New Jersey State AFL-CIO expressed surprise and disappointment regarding Congressman Frank Pallone's recent announcement supporting a moratorium on new data center construction in the United States. In an open letter, the labor organization, traditionally a political ally of Pallone, argued that this "extreme policy" is unnecessary and would result in job losses for union members involved in building and maintaining data centers.
The AFL-CIO highlighted its ongoing efforts with New Jersey legislators and the Governor to establish "guardrails" for responsible data center construction, balancing community impact with resource allocation concerns like electricity and water. They contend that Pallone's proposed moratorium runs counter to these balanced policymaking efforts, potentially harming economic growth and the technology support network.
Emphasizing the skilled union workforce residing within Pallone's district and across the state, the AFL-CIO warned that an enacted moratorium could lead to "tens of thousands" of members becoming unemployed, thereby hindering shared goals to elect pro-worker majorities in upcoming mid-term elections. The union urged Congressman Pallone to retract his position and instead collaborate with labor and developers to forge a balanced policy that avoids adverse impacts on their members.