Governor Joe Lombardo Sets New Nevada Data Center Standards

Governor Joe Lombardo issued an executive order on September 18, 2026, establishing the Nevada Standard for Responsible Data Center Development. The order creates new requirements for developers seeking partial tax abatements, most notably the mandatory full payment of the Local School Support Tax and the execution of a binding Community Support Commitment.

Lombardo stated the order ensures developers pay their share and protect water resources without passing costs to utility ratepayers. He emphasized that the measure restores funding to classrooms that would have otherwise been lost under outdated state law. The order also mandates that facilities meet local water standards and avoid straining the electrical grid or local communities during emergencies.

The Data Center Coalition thanked the governor for his leadership but expressed concerns that these new policies could create barriers to future development within the state.