Data Center Planning and Development Must Recognize Local Authority and Infrastructure Realities

This story discusses how proposed Maryland legislation, HB 1411 - Data Center Planning and Transparency Act, would impact local authority over data center development and infrastructure planning. The story argues that the bill would undercut local land use authority, impose an unfunded planning mandate, and duplicate work already underway in many jurisdictions. It emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach that respects local planning processes while addressing infrastructure realities surrounding data centers.