Ohio Voters Pass Local Data Center Restrictions

Voters in 18 Ohio communities passed local ballot measures on November 3, 2026, to restrict, regulate, or oppose the development of data centers. The local results have shifted the focus to the state legislature, where advocates are now pushing for a unified regulatory approach.

Hannah Halbert, Executive Director of Policy Matters Ohio, urged the Ohio General Assembly to implement meaningful state-level regulations during its lame-duck session. Halbert identified HB 646 as a viable path toward reining in development. However, she warned that other pending legislation, specifically HB 11, HB 775, and HB 1024, could undermine the incoming administration of Governor-elect Acton.

Halbert argued that the legislature should avoid granting leadership veto power over state agencies or creating frameworks that hamstring the next administration's ability to enforce rules. She stated that Ohioans used the local measures to weigh in on the growing impact of data centers and the need for stronger oversight.