New York has become the first US state to impose a one-year moratorium on the construction of large data centers, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. The ban applies to facilities using 50 megawatts or more and will remain in effect until the state establishes consistent standards for responsible development.
Growing public concerns over pollution, rising energy costs, and water shortages have led to increasing calls for data center construction halts nationwide, including a federal bill introduced by Senators Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. However, the legislation faces opposition from Republicans, who argue, citing Donald Trump, that such moratoriums could undermine America's lead in the artificial intelligence race.
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