New York has enacted the first U.S. ban on data center construction霍. Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order that pauses permits for centers consuming more than 50 megawatts of power for up to a year.

The order aims to protect the electrical grid, environment, and local communities, taking effect immediately without affecting projects that already have permits. It is separate from the Responsible Data Center Development Act, a bill that would also ban permits for a year and set energy‑efficiency goals for data centers.

NY is positioning itself as a leader in data center standards, with Hochul stating that companies must succeed for New Yorkers as well. Public opposition has spurred similar moves in other states: Maine passed a moratorium that was vetoed by Governor Janet Mills, while Washington, Wisconsin, Illinois, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Connecticut, South Carolina, and cities like Seattle are advancing legislation.

Hochul, a pro‑business moderate, originally said bans should be left to cities and communities but adopted the moratorium ahead of local elections. She argues that data centers threaten utility costs, natural resources, and community stability, making decisive action necessary.