US Lawmakers Push Data Center Moratoriums Amid Energy Concerns

Lawmakers at both state and federal levels are pushing for moratoriums and stricter regulations on data center construction following a midterm election that saw voters in 10 states support restrictions in 40 of 41 ballot measures. In Washington, Governor Bob Ferguson expressed confidence that the state Legislature will pass regulations during the 2027 session, supported by a new Democratic supermajority in the state House. Proposed state measures include banning non-disclosure agreements, requiring operational curtailment during grid peaks, and increasing utility fees for large energy users.

At the federal level, Republican Senator Josh Hawley has called for a federal moratorium during the lame duck session to ensure development does not increase consumer utility rates. This aligns with efforts by Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who have introduced legislation to halt new AI data center construction. Other proposed federal actions include the GRID Savings Act and the GRID Act, which would force high-capacity facilities to cover grid costs or block their connection to the power grid.

President Donald Trump is expected to veto a federal moratorium, arguing that rapid construction is essential to maintain a competitive edge over China. In response to the regulatory pressure, OpenAI has proposed a framework where the company would pay for its own infrastructure and electricity upgrades, urging policymakers to codify such commitments into law.