Pauses New Data Center Approvals Until 2030
Virginia · SB843 · Introduced Oct 9, 2026
Why it matters
Companies planning new data centers in Virginia could not get final local or state approval for them during the pause. Local governments would also lose the ability to approve those projects.
What it does
- Stops localities from giving final approval to new data center rezonings, permits, and site plans after July 1, 2027
- Stops state agencies from approving permits or power connections for data centers after July 1, 2027
- Ends the pause on July 1, 2030, unless lawmakers extend it
In committee
Next: a committee vote
- Introduceddone
- Committeecurrent step
- Senatenot yet
- Housenot yet
- Governornot yet
About this bill
Would stop localities and state agencies from approving new data centers and related power links from July 1, 2027, until July 1, 2030.
Data centers; state permitting, local approval, moratorium, sunset.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Some residents and local groups would likely say a pause gives time to study data centers' effect on power and land. It would also let communities weigh in before new projects go up.
💬 The case against
Technology and business groups would likely say the pause could drive away investment and jobs. They may also argue it slows the power projects the state needs.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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