Data Centers Became Decisive Election Issue for New York Voters

In post-election analysis, data centers stood out as a key election issue for New Yorkers. Polls found most voters don't support them and stand by Governor Kathy Hochul's data center moratorium. They were a focal point in several congressional races and the governor's race due to criticisms about their environmental impacts. But proponents argue they create jobs and economic development. Rob Hayes with Environmental Advocates New York says data center developers' lack of transparency can harm communities...

Rob Hayes: not a fully public process

Lawmakers are developing data center regulations during Hochul's moratorium. The state is accepting public comments on a draft scope review of data centers' environmental impacts. But Hayes notes this doesn’t account for the full water and land impacts data centers have. He says another regulatory tool is the Responsible Data Center Development Act...

Rob Hayes: would extend moratorium

The measure has received wide support from lawmakers and residents. It passed both chambers of the legislature shortly before the moratorium was issued and now awaits either a signature or veto from Hochul.