Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today introduced legislation to prevent data center development near neighborhoods, schools, and parks.
“Virginia should welcome innovation, but not at any cost. We need to ensure data centers pay their fair share and are built in places that make sense — not next to neighborhoods, schools, or our public lands,” said Vindman. “This study will help Congress make smarter decisions that protect Virginia families while supporting economic growth.”
The Smart Data Center Policy Act directs the Department of Commerce to study the costs, benefits, and potential incentives for siting data centers in locations such as industrial zones, transportation hubs like rail hubs and airports, industrial zones, and military installations rather than near residential communities and green spaces.
The study must consider construction costs, electricity and water demands, available infrastructure capacity, and potential federal incentives that could encourage development in areas that reduced impact on residential communities.
The Department must submit its findings to the House Armed Services Committee and the House Energy and Commerce Committee within 180 days of enactment.
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