introduced the AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026, a bill that would ensure communities are informed, before deals are finalized, of plans to build AI data centers in their neighborhoods
Require AI data center developers to disclose proposed projects and environmental impacts to affected communities before development proceeds.
Occurrences
Evidence
Congresswoman LaMonica McIver introduced the AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026. The press release says the bill would require communities to be informed before deals are finalized, and it specifically says developers must publicly disclose proposed AI data center locations at least 180 days before any definitive step toward development, along with electricity use, water consumption, cooling demands, and environmental impacts backed by an independent third-party analysis.
The bill text states that a covered entity intending to establish, operate, or own an AI-focused data center must, not later than 180 days before the date on which the developer takes a definitive step to establish the data center, disclose the proposed location to relevant local elected officials and the public, including estimated resources needed and the environmental impact. It also requires outreach, limits NDAs, and treats violations as FTC unfair or deceptive acts or practices.
Assessments
McIver introduced the AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026, and the bill text directly matches the promised requirement for advance disclosure of proposed AI data center locations, resource needs, and environmental impacts to affected communities. However, the available evidence and current bill-status reporting show only introduction/referral, not passage, enactment, or implementation. Because this is a serious legislative attempt that has not delivered the promised binding requirement, the proper rating is never with an effort badge.