Opinion: Keeping data center decisions local

This [June], I introduced the Local Control Protection Act to ensure that decisions about data center development remain in the hands of local communities, not multinational corporations.

Across Northeastern Pennsylvania, residents and local officials know what is best for their communities. Yet when a town or borough determines that a proposed data center is not the right fit, large developers can use costly lawsuits to challenge that decision and pressure local governments into backing down. Too often, municipal leaders are forced to choose between standing up for their residents and absorbing legal costs that strain already limited budgets.

My legislation would protect municipalities from these lawsuits and reinforce their authority over development decisions. The bill would prevent developers from receiving federal permits for a data center project while they are actively challenging a local zoning decision in court. For projects that do move forward, developers seeking federal support would be required to demonstrate a meaningful benefit to the community, including investments in local infrastructure and opportunities for local workers.

The future of our communities should be determined by the people who live in them, not outside interests. I will continue fighting to protect local decision-making and ensure Northeastern Pennsylvania communities have the final say over development that impacts our region.

Rob Bresnahan
U.S. Representative, PA, 8th Congressional District