North Country Assemblyman defends bill that puts moratorium on data center permits
New York Assemblyman Michael Cashman is defending a bill he co-sponsored that proposes a one-year moratorium on new data center permits in New York. This comes as Gov. Kathy Hochul has already signed an executive order creating a moratorium. Supporters argue a pause allows time to establish tougher environmental and energy standards, while AI companies view data centers as crucial for economic competition and job creation.
New York Assemblyman Michael Cashman, representing the North Country, is actively defending a bill he co-sponsored that aims to implement a one-year moratorium on new data center permits across New York State. Cashman articulated his position at a public symposium titled "The Backlash Against AI Data Centers," held at SUNY Plattsburgh's Hawkins Hall.
The legislative effort follows an executive order signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, which also established a moratorium. Proponents of the pause argue it provides essential time for New York to develop more stringent environmental and energy standards and to comprehensively address the potential impacts of data centers on local communities.
Conversely, AI companies express concerns that such moratoriums could hinder their ability to compete effectively with international rivals like China and could impede job creation within the state.