Hood County commissioners will reconsider moratorium on data centers, after narrowly voting against it

The Hood County Commissioners Court in Texas is reconsidering a moratorium on new data center developments in the area, after previously voting against it. Residents argue the moratorium is necessary to study the potential impacts on public health, the environment, and the state's electricity and water resources. Texas Senator Paul Bettencourt has said local officials lack the power to enact such a broad moratorium. The Republican Party of Texas has also passed a resolution opposing data center construction without a rigorous assessment. Texas has the second-most data centers in the country, and North Texas is a major hub. The commissioners will vote on seeking an Attorney General opinion and asking the governor to call a special session to address the issue.