Fayetteville introduces legislation to regulate data centers
Fayetteville is drafting legislation to strengthen its city code regarding data centers, particularly focusing on water usage. Mayor Molly Rawn stated that these proposed changes aim to give the city more control and prioritize residents' water needs over large data center operations, as state law prevents an outright ban.
Fayetteville, Arkansas, is in the process of drafting new legislation to enhance its city code concerning data centers. Mayor Molly Rawn announced that the city leaders are working to tighten existing regulations, as state law prohibits an outright ban on data center development.
The proposed changes are designed to provide Fayetteville with increased control over the water usage of data centers, including those located outside city limits that utilize municipal utilities. The primary goal of this legislation is to prioritize the water needs of city residents over those of large data center operations.