California Lawmakers Pass Data Center Water Disclosure Bills, Awaiting Governor's Decision
California lawmakers have passed two bills, AB 2469 and AB 2619, requiring data centers to disclose water usage and potentially cover infrastructure costs. These bills, aimed at increasing transparency and addressing environmental concerns, now await Governor Gavin Newsom's signature after he vetoed a similar measure last year. Public and local government opposition to data center expansion has grown across the state.
California lawmakers have again advanced two bills, Assembly Bill 2469 and Assembly Bill 2619, to Governor Gavin Newsom, aiming to increase transparency around data center water consumption. Both bills, authored by Assemblymember Diane Papan, passed their respective chambers and are now awaiting the Governor's signature or veto. Last year, Newsom vetoed a similar bill, citing concerns about imposing "rigid reporting requirements" on businesses.
AB 2469 would prevent local governments from approving new or expanded data centers unless developers disclose water usage plans and commit to covering necessary water infrastructure costs. AB 2619 mandates data center operators report their past and projected water use when applying for or renewing business licenses and permits, under penalty of perjury.
The legislative push comes amid growing public and local government unease over the rapid expansion of data centers and their environmental impact, particularly concerning water and energy demands. Communities like Monterey Park and Coachella have approved outright bans on data centers, while Tulare County supervisors are considering a moratorium on new approvals. Environmental advocates and community groups support the bills for increased transparency, while industry groups like the Data Center Coalition and local government organizations (League of California Cities, California State Association of Counties, Rural County Representatives of California) express concerns about singling out data centers or undermining local permitting authority. Santa Clara Valley Water District, however, supports the bills, emphasizing the need for better water use data for planning purposes.