Here are today’s most significant data center locality stories — regulatory battles, community opposition, and legal challenges shaping where data centers can be built across the United States.
1. Illinois moves to suspend data center tax breaks. Here’s how Virginia’s compare.
Illinois · Government Policy
Illinois has moved to suspend tax breaks for data center developments, signaling a shift in state incentives. This matters because tax incentives are a major factor in data center siting decisions, and changes could impact investment flows and competitive positioning against other states like Virginia. Read here.
2. Ohio Senate passes legislation to regulate data centers, critics say bill doesn’t go far enough
Ohio · Government Policy
The Ohio Senate has passed legislation aimed at regulating data center development, though critics argue the measures do not sufficiently address community and environmental concerns. This legislation is significant as Ohio is a growing data center market, and regulatory clarity or restrictions will influence future projects and local acceptance. Read here.
3. Texas Governor Seeks New Limits on Data Centers
Texas · Government Policy
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is pushing for new limits on data center development, including calls for regulators to rein in energy use and require data centers to cover their own infrastructure costs. This is impactful as Texas is a major data center hub, and increased regulatory scrutiny could slow growth and increase operational costs. Read here.
4. Maryland border county outright bans data centers
Maryland · Government Policy
A county on the Maryland border has enacted an outright ban on data center construction, representing one of the strongest local regulatory actions against the industry. This ban matters as it reflects growing local resistance and could set a precedent for other jurisdictions considering similar prohibitions. Read here.
5. Luther residents challenge data center development as opposition grows across Oklahoma
Oklahoma · Community Pushback
Residents in Luther, Oklahoma, have formally challenged a proposed data center development amid increasing statewide opposition to such projects. This local pushback highlights the rising community concerns that could delay or block data center expansions in emerging markets. Read here.
This roundup is generated daily from our Data Center Locality Report. Subscribe for the full intelligence briefing.