Spanberger rolls out data center accountability plan - but does it go far enough?
Governor Spanberger announced a comprehensive plan to hold data centers accountable in Virginia. The plan includes an executive order directing a data center accountability framework and a toolkit for communities, alongside a ban on non-disclosure agreements for certain state officials. While praised by lawmakers and environmental advocates, the plan does not propose a moratorium or repeal tax breaks for data centers.
Governor Abigail Spanberger of Virginia announced a new set of proposals on September 18 aimed at enhancing data center accountability and addressing the rapid growth of artificial intelligence in the state. Speaking in Richmond, Spanberger outlined what she termed a "comprehensive and aggressive plan" to regulate the data center industry.
The plan features an executive order that mandates state leaders to develop a Virginia data center accountability framework and create a toolkit to assist local governments and communities in evaluating data center proposals. Additionally, the order includes a ban on non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for specific state officials involved in data center development deals, though the extent of its application to local economic development directors remains unclear.
Spanberger's initiative also establishes a new AI task force to tackle the emerging concerns and risks associated with artificial intelligence. While parts of her plan will require approval from the state's General Assembly, where Democrats currently hold control, the announcement received praise from over a dozen state lawmakers across both chambers. Environmental organizations, including the Virginia League of Conservation Voters, the Virginia Sierra Club, and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, also voiced their support.
However, it's notable that the Governor's plan does not include a moratorium on data center development, which some stakeholders have advocated for, nor does it call for the repeal of significant tax breaks currently benefiting data centers in Virginia. Despite these omissions, the announcement marks a significant step by Governor Spanberger to address public concerns and establish her influence on data center development policy within the state.