Data Center Explosion: State Rep. Brian Stewart Backs New Commission to Tackle Rapid Growth

COLUMBUS, Ohio — State Representative Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) is spearheading an effort to address the rapid expansion of data centers across Ohio, a state he describes as a burgeoning hub for digital infrastructure. Stewart, co-sponsoring House Bill 646, advocates for a "timeout" to comprehensively study the multifaceted impacts of this growth. The bipartisan bill, which has successfully passed the Ohio House and is now advancing to the Ohio Senate, proposes the creation of the Ohio Data Center Study Commission. This commission, operating under the Department of Development, would consist of members appointed by the Governor and legislative leaders, tasked with a six-month investigation. The Commission's mandate includes scrutinizing critical areas such as the conversion of agricultural land for data center construction, the immense water and energy demands these facilities impose on the state's power grid, noise pollution issues from cooling systems, and national security concerns related to data ownership and protocols. Representative Stewart emphasized the necessity of a thorough review, citing "legitimate concerns" from his constituents in Pickaway and Fairfield Counties. Upon enactment, the Commission is required to convene its first meeting within 45 days. Its final report, due six months later, will include legislative recommendations poised to potentially redefine the future development and location of data centers throughout Ohio.