(LANSING) - State Rep. Jennifer Wortz of Quincy is leading an effort to temporarily halt new data center construction across Michigan.
Wortz has introduced House Bills 5594 through 5596, a package known as the Data Center Regulation Act, which would establish a moratorium on new data center development until April 1, 2027.
Under the proposal, developers would be prohibited from receiving state or local permits or beginning operations during the moratorium period.
Wortz says the goal is to give local governments and residents more time to evaluate the impact of large-scale, energy-intensive facilities. She has cited concerns about land use, water consumption and strain on the electric grid, particularly in rural communities.
Some Michigan townships have already enacted or considered temporary bans on data center projects. Wortz has pointed to Saline Township, where a large-scale development is planned despite opposition from some residents.
The legislation is co-sponsored by Rep. Joseph Fox of Fremont and Rep. Dylan Wegela of Garden City. The bills have been referred to the House Committee on Government Operations for further consideration.