Sanders, AOC Introduce Bill to Pause Data Center Growth
The bill represents hesitation and concern for data centers among some lawmakers and communities.
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2026 – Two progressive lawmakers introduced a bill Wednesday to pause new data centers until safeguards are implemented for workers, consumers and the environment.
Sponsored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., the bill is unlikely to advance in either the House or Senate, but represents concerns many lawmakers and communities share about the growing impact of data centers and artificial intelligence.
A moratorium would give lawmakers and business leaders designated time to understand risks associated with artificial intelligence and data centers, protect working families and democracy and ensure the technology works for all Americans, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez said.
