New York has become the first U.S. state to enact a one-year ban on constructing data centers that use 50 megawatts or more, as Governor Kathy Hochul signed a moratorium on Tuesday.
The pause will remain until the state establishes consistent standards for responsible data center development. The decision comes amid growing national concerns over pollution, rising energy costs, and water depletion linked to data centers.
Federal legislation for a nationwide moratorium has been introduced by Senators Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, but faces opposition from Republicans who argue it could undermine America’s AI leadership.
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