Progressive Lawmakers Propose Moratorium on Data Centers Amid Environmental Concerns

Wed Mar 25 2026 21:24:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders introduce legislation aimed at halting new data centers in the U.S. until national safeguards are enacted to protect consumers and the environment.

Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders have introduced a bill to pause the establishment of new data centers in the U.S. until appropriate measures are implemented to address environmental impacts and protect consumers. Despite the bill's low chances of passing, it reflects growing concerns among progressives regarding the rising electricity costs associated with data centers, as well as potential pollution issues linked to their operations.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Two high-profile progressive lawmakers are introducing a bill Wednesday that would pause new data centers in the United States until national safeguards are in place to protect workers and consumers and ensure the technologies don’t harm the environment.

The legislation by Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Vermont independent Sen. Bernie Sanders is unlikely to advance in either the House or Senate, but it shows the deep concerns many progressives share about the growing impact of data centers and artificial intelligence.

Communities across the country have seen a backlash against data centers over fears about rising electricity prices and concerns about pollution and water consumption. Opposition to rising power prices was also a key factor in Democratic wins last year in elections in states including Georgia, Virginia, and New Jersey.

Although advances in artificial intelligence are viewed by several leaders as critical to the nation’s economy and national security, their growing energy needs are threatening to overwhelm the power grid. President Trump has sought to deflect public concerns about AI by inviting major technology companies to the White House to commit to developing their own power generation.

“They need some PR help because people think that if a data center goes in there, electricity prices are going to go up,” Trump said.

Voters need more than voluntary assurances from tech companies, Sanders stated, claiming that the rapid evolution of AI and robotics necessitates immediate legislative action. “We need serious public debate and democratic oversight over this enormously consequential issue. The time for action is now. We need a federal moratorium on AI data centers,” he emphasized.

Despite the rising pressure for regulation, most lawmakers of both parties have rebuffed the idea of a moratorium. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania voiced concerns that such a moratorium would cede leadership in AI technology to China.

The White House has stated that Congress should address AI concerns without curtailing growth or innovation, emphasizing a collaborative approach with tech companies.

The U.S. electricity consumption reached a record high in 2024 and is projected to continue rising as data centers expand at an escalating pace.