Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez introduced a bill that would stall the country’s data center frenzy. (The Guardian)
The background: Since August 2025, towns and counties throughout the US have rolled out temporary bans on data center construction. Now, more than 11 states are weighing similar policies. In December, 200+ advocacy groups, citing energy affordability and climate concerns, called for something more drastic: a federal moratorium.
This bill, announced yesterday, would deliver on that call until Washington passes AI safeguards benefiting consumers, workers, and the environment...which could take years. And politicians disagree on what exactly they’d look like.
Looking forward: In the months leading up to the midterms, politicians on both sides may jump on the moratorium bandwagon to secure votes.