Some Nevada unions love data centers. Now they just have to convince everyone else.
Nevada labor unions are divided over data center development, with electrical and construction unions supporting projects for the jobs they create while other unions worry about AI-driven job losses and environmental impacts. Unions broadly support safeguards for energy, water use, taxes and labor standards, while some groups back a moratorium or pause on new facilities.
Nevada’s electrical and construction unions are promoting data center development because of the jobs generated by projects, while other labor groups remain concerned that artificial intelligence could displace workers and that large facilities could strain water and energy supplies. IBEW representatives Ronald Young and Jacob Haas said development should continue with protections requiring companies to pay their own power costs, use less water-intensive cooling systems and provide measurable public benefits.
The Nevada AFL-CIO has endorsed responsible data center development tied to water and energy protections, transparency, tax benefits and labor standards. By contrast, National Nurses United supports a federal moratorium, and speakers at a Reno City Council meeting backed a local pause over environmental and AI concerns. The debate is expected to continue during Nevada’s 2027 legislative session as unions and policymakers consider regulation, tax abatements and worker protections.