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Bill

SB 393

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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Russet Perry and 1 co-sponsor

SB 393 links Virginia data center taxation to land conservation funding, creating a tax incentive mechanism to balance economic development with environmental preservation.

Continued to next session in Finance and Appropriations (15-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 393

Legislative bill overview

SB 393 establishes a tax incentive mechanism tied to data center development that directs or allocates funding toward land conservation efforts in Virginia. The bill creates a financial link between data center operations or construction and support for outdoor land preservation initiatives.

Why is this important

Data centers represent significant economic development and tax revenue for Virginia, while land conservation addresses growing concerns about sprawl and environmental protection. This bill attempts to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship by using data center-related tax revenue to fund conservation programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax incentive design uncertainty: The specific mechanics of how data center taxes fund conservation and whether incentives adequately offset revenue loss remain unclear from available information
  • Conservation priority conflicts: Questions about which lands receive conservation funding and whether this approach effectively targets the most ecologically valuable properties versus politically connected areas
  • Economic competitiveness: Data center operators may view additional tax obligations as disadvantageous compared to competing states, potentially affecting Virginia's recruitment efforts in this high-value sector

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

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