Ohio Lawmakers and Residents Fight to Limit AI Data Centers

Ohio is facing a growing backlash against the expansion of hyperscale AI data centers, leading to a coordinated effort by state lawmakers and rural residents to restrict these facilities. Matt Huffman, Speaker of the Ohio House, and Senate President Rob McColley are planning to override Governor Mike DeWine's veto of a provision in House Bill 96 that would eliminate sales tax exemptions for data center equipment.

To address infrastructure and environmental concerns, the Ohio House unanimously passed House Bill 646 on March 18, 2026. This legislation creates a Data Center Study Commission to investigate the impact of large-scale facilities on the electrical grid, water usage, and farmland. Separately, Representatives Tristan Rader and David Thomas introduced House Bill 706, which proposes exit fees and minimum capacity commitments for operators.

Local resistance has intensified in rural areas. The city of Nelsonville passed an ordinance banning data center construction, while the group Adams County for Responsible Development submitted a petition to the Ohio Attorney General's office. This proposal seeks a constitutional amendment to ban data centers using more than 25 megawatts of power. Group representative Danielle Kinhalt cited concerns over water quality and a lack of transparency from local officials. If the petition is approved, the group must collect over 413,000 signatures by July 1 to place the measure on the November ballot.