Senate hopes to sweeten AI deals, with a caveat
By Christina Lengyel | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – When it comes to artificial intelligence – and the data centers required to power it – Pennsylvania has been full steam ahead.
Eagerness to capitalize on the growing industry has been a rare point of agreement between Democrats and Republicans in the state. That eagerness is reflected in a bipartisan Senate bill “fast tracking” data center development.
On Tuesday, however, one of the bill’s cosponsors, Democratic Sen. Marty Flynn, Scranton, announced an amendment responding to public concerns about the technology’s rapid proliferation.
A press release from Flynn’s office states that the amendment will ensure that local residents and elected officials have a say in the process. The amendment would give local bodies final approval through a majority vote at publicly advertised meetings.
“This amendment is about putting power back in the hands of local governments and the people they represent,” said Flynn. “Communities deserve transparency and a voice in decisions that could impact everything from infrastructure to quality of life.”
Some of those concerns have borne out in public discourse over the last few months as Amazon has promised billions toward projects in the state. Residents raise concerns about the demand on the state’s energy grid, new reliance on fossil fuels, water consumption, and noise and light pollution.
Amazon has worked to allay such fears with carbon zero and water positive pledges for 2040 and 2030 respectively. The company emphasizes its role in the local communities where it operates.
The “regulatory sandbox” proposed in SB 939 would designate the entire state a “Commonwealth Opportunity Zone,” incentivizing AI businesses to set up shop. It promises to “eliminate unnecessary and irrelevant red tape” while preserving local control over development decisions.
Data centers in Luzerne and Bucks Counties came into fruition after months of negotiations with Gov. Josh Shapiro’s offices. The deals demonstrated cooperation between state and federal officials and Amazon executives.
When announced, some community members protested.
“My amendment makes sure residents won’t be left out of the process when it comes to high-impact development,” said Flynn.
