US voters weigh 41 local measures that could curb data center growth

Voters in ten US states are deciding on 41 local ballot measures Tuesday that could restrict data center construction, the physical infrastructure behind artificial intelligence tools. Twenty-eight of these measures propose limits, including complete bans or temporary moratoriums. Ohio is the epicenter with 21 votes across 18 communities, as the state has the fourth-highest number of operating data centers nationally. The backlash stems from concerns over high electricity bills, water consumption for cooling, noise pollution, and few permanent jobs, with a Gallup poll showing 71% of Americans oppose data centers in their communities. The issue is influencing the Senate race in Ohio, where Democrat Sherrod Brown is campaigning against Republican Senator Jon Husted over his role in attracting data centers with tax incentives. The industry plans $3 trillion in investments for over 3,000 data centers by 2030, but more than 50 projects have already been cancelled this year due to community opposition.