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HB 641

Virginia's Great Outdoors Act; established, creates data center land conservation tax.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Buddy Fowler and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill creates tax credit incentive for data center operators to fund or support land conservation efforts, balancing industrial growth with environmental preservation.

Assigned HFIN sub: Subcommittee #1
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Bill Summary · HB 641

Legislative bill overview

HB 641 establishes a data center land conservation tax credit in Virginia, creating a financial incentive mechanism tied to outdoor land preservation. The bill creates a tax benefit structure designed to encourage data center operators or related entities to contribute to or support conservation efforts.

Why is this important

Data centers represent significant economic development and tax revenue for Virginia, but also consume substantial land and resources. By linking data center operations to conservation requirements or incentives, the bill attempts to balance industrial growth with environmental stewardship and outdoor space preservation.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax revenue impact: Critics may argue the tax credit reduces state revenue needed for education, infrastructure, or services, while supporters contend it generates offsetting economic benefits through data center attraction
  • Definition and enforcement: The specifics of what qualifies as "conservation," how much land must be preserved, and monitoring compliance mechanisms are unclear from the title alone and could create disputes
  • Fairness and scope: Questions about whether the incentive favors large corporations, whether it applies uniformly across Virginia regions, and if smaller businesses receive equivalent benefits

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

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