WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1449

Data centers; site assessment for high energy use facility.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Carroll Foy and 1 co-sponsor

Requires environmental and infrastructure site assessments before approving large data centers, rejected by governor but initially passed by senate.

Vetoed by Governor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1449

Legislative bill overview

SB 1449 requires comprehensive site assessments before approving high-energy-use data center facilities in Virginia. The bill establishes environmental and infrastructure evaluation standards that must be completed prior to project approval, giving state agencies and local communities greater visibility into potential impacts.

Why is this important

Data centers consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, creating significant environmental and infrastructure demands. Virginia has become a major hub for data center development, making this bill relevant to energy policy, environmental protection, and local resource management across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic development vs. environmental caution: Data centers bring jobs and tax revenue, but mandatory assessments could delay or deter investment and make Virginia less competitive with other states
  • Cost allocation: Unclear who bears assessment costs—developers, state agencies, or taxpayers—which affects project feasibility and fairness
  • Assessment scope and enforceability: Disagreement likely exists over what qualifies as "comprehensive," what agencies conduct reviews, and whether assessments are merely informational or binding on approval decisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.