Virginia Governor Establishes AI Task Force and Introduces Data Center Regulations
On September 18, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed an executive order to address risks associated with data centers and artificial intelligence. The directive includes banning non-disclosure agreements for data center projects, expediting noise regulations, reviewing backup power operations, and forming a task force to evaluate AI-related risks such as workforce displacement and privacy concerns. The move reflects growing state-level action on AI policy amid federal inaction or resistance. Similar executive actions have been taken by governors in California, New York, and Texas. Spanberger also introduced the 'Data Center Accountability Framework,' aiming to limit automatic approvals for new data centers, reduce subsidies, set environmental standards, and protect residents from rising energy costs. Environmental groups praised some aspects of the order but expressed concerns that it does not address existing or pending developments adequately.
Topics: AI regulation data centers executive orders local governance