Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed Executive Order 22 to increase local oversight of data center projects. The directive prohibits state officials from entering into non-disclosure agreements regarding these developments and mandates a review of backup power operations alongside the introduction of stricter noise regulations.
The order also establishes a dedicated AI task force. This group will assess risks to state residents, including potential workforce displacement and data privacy concerns, while evaluating the application of current laws to address harms caused by artificial intelligence technologies.
Spanberger introduced a Data Center Accountability Framework to reform approval processes. The plan aims to eliminate by-right development permissions, reduce state-level subsidies, and implement environmental protections. It also seeks to shield local residents from rising energy costs linked to data center operations.
These measures follow similar executive actions taken by governors in California, New York, and Texas to regulate the rapid expansion of data centers and AI safety. The Piedmont Environment Council noted that while the framework sets new standards, it does not address existing facilities or projects already in the pipeline.
