Michigan Senate Democrats put forth several bills to regulate data centers

News Clip2:23UpNorthLive·MI·6/22/2026

Michigan Senate Democrats have introduced a package of seven bills aimed at regulating data center development across the state. The proposed legislation includes new permitting requirements and a daily cap on water usage for facilities. This initiative seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection and community benefits.

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Gov: Michigan Senate
As data centers pop up in more places across the state, many want to see rules to constrain the projects. Now, Michigan Senate Democrats are wading in with a move to regulate facilities across the state. Drawing from lessons learned in other states, the group of Senators say they're charting a different path with seven bills. “We're building the economy of the future, but in a way that protects our environment, strengthens our communities, and ensures working people share in the successes," Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) said. One bill would put in place permitting requirements for entities using 550,000 gallons of water per day, with a daily cap of 2 million gallons. DETAILS: https://upnorthlive.com/news/local/data-center-regulation-michigan-bills-legislation-package-senate-democrats-politics-government-technology-state