AI-data centers are rapidly proliferating across the United States. These facilities promise technological and economic benefits but have associated steep increases in electricity and water use that can strain local resources and infrastructure. Communities are reporting growing concerns over water scarcity, higher utility rates, pollution, and stability of local power grids. Despite sustainability pledges from major tech companies, energy and cooling needs from AI-data centers continue an unchecked rise, and state incentives have often encouraged development without requiring adequate transparency and environmental protections. With no uniform federal framework and significant impacts emerging, lawmakers in many states are beginning to propose policies that strengthen disclosure, assess cumulative impacts, and establish efficiency and public engagement requirements. In our legislative framework, we articulate policy goals and offer options for comprehensive legislative responses. The model includes draft legislative language that can be customized by states and local governments to suit their needs.
See a PDF version of our legislative model below. Link to a Google document version of the model legislation that may be downloaded and modified, here.
Citation:
Washer, E., Kamp, T., & Scanlan, M. (2026). AI-Data Centers: Legislative Model to Promote Transparency and Environmental Protections. University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee Publications.