Data centers, energy costs, and fracking loom as Democrats finally get full control of Pa. legislature
Pennsylvania Democrats now control the governor’s office and both legislative chambers and face pressure to address the energy and environmental impacts of hyperscale data centers. A House-approved bill would let municipalities impose 180-day moratoriums, while a separate proposal seeks a three-year statewide moratorium on hyperscale data center development and permitting.
With Democrats holding Pennsylvania’s governorship, House and Senate for the first time since 1993, lawmakers are under pressure to respond to proposed hyperscale data centers and their effects on electricity demand, utility costs and the environment. Six AI-focused facilities totaling millions of square feet have been proposed in Bucks, Chester and Montgomery Counties.
A bipartisan bill sponsored by State Rep. Paul Friel would allow municipalities to impose temporary moratoriums of up to 180 days while developing local regulations; it has passed the House and awaits Senate action. State Sen. Katie Muth has separately proposed a three-year statewide moratorium, which has been referred to committee. Environmental advocates including Food and Water Watch organizer Ginny Kerslake and PennEnvironment executive director David Masur are urging swift action, while Gov. Josh Shapiro has already signed an executive order restricting data center development.