From Mashable · Matt Binder · · 1m 30s
The data center ban wave sweeping America
Americans overwhelmingly oppose new AI data centers, and 16 states have introduced legislation to stop them. Only New York has succeeded so far.
In brief
Americans overwhelmingly oppose new AI data centers, and 16 states have introduced legislation to stop them. Only New York has succeeded so far. Despite massive public opposition to data centers, only New York has enacted a moratorium. Sixteen other states have introduced similar bills, but most have failed to pass…
Americans reject new data centers
A New York Times and Sienna survey found 61 percent of Americans oppose new data center construction, driven by concerns about noise, environmental damage, and AI-driven job losses.
“61 percent of Americans oppose new construction”
Only New York has enacted a ban
As of September 2026, New York is the only state with a statewide moratorium on hyperscale data centers. Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order in July pausing new developments for one year.
“the first and only moratorium of its kind in the United States”
Sixteen states introduced legislation
From Delaware to Wisconsin, 16 states have introduced bills to ban or pause data center construction. These span both Democratic and Republican strongholds, showing bipartisan concern.
Most state bills have failed
Despite introduction in 16 states, most data center moratorium bills have stalled or been rejected. Maine's bill passed both chambers but was vetoed by Governor Janet Mills over a missing exemption.
Trump administration opposes restrictions
The Trump administration has warned that states like New York lack legal authority to restrict data centers, calling them 'anti-innovation' and threatening economic development.
“anti-innovation states”
States seek different approaches
Proposed bills vary widely: some seek temporary moratoriums until 2027 or 2028, others demand impact studies, energy standards, or local control over approvals. Pennsylvania wants a three-year freeze.
The short version
Despite massive public opposition to data centers, only New York has enacted a moratorium. Sixteen other states have introduced similar bills, but most have failed to pass.
