New York has become the first U.S. state to halt construction of large data centers, with Governor Kathy Hochul announcing a one-year moratorium on facilities using 50 megawatts or more.
The ban will remain in place until the state establishes consistent standards for responsible data center development. Growing concerns over pollution, rising energy costs, and water shortages have fueled calls for similar restrictions nationwide.
At the federal level, Senators Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have proposed a nationwide moratorium, but the legislation faces opposition from Republicans who argue it could undermine America's lead in artificial intelligence.
Comments