MADISON, Wis. (WRN) — Legislation to regulate data centers in Wisconsin is advancing at the Capitol.
Data centers projects are a source of concern for residents around the state. A Republican authored bill which passed the state Assembly on Tuesday could address those, although Ashland Democrat Angela Stroud argues it doesn’t do enough to protect ratepayers or the environment.
“The only take away from the Republican bill is they don’t actually want to regulate data centers, because if they did, they would have proposed something that’s actually serious, that’s actually achievable, and it would actually get the job done,” Stroud said.
Democratic Governor Tony Evers has indicated he opposes the bill. Its author, River Falls Republican Shannon Zimmerman, cautions against doing nothing.
“I’ll take good all day long. Because currently I mean if you don’t support this, what you’re saying is I’m not going to support and defend the ratepayers. I’m not going to put provisions in which assure us of water protection going forward, so I’m hopeful,” Zimmerman said.
Democrats failed to amend the bill on the floor or return it to committee. It’s now ready for consideration in the Senate.