MADISON, WI – Representative Alex Dallman (R-Markesan) released the following statement regarding the introduction of Assembly Bill 840 (AB 840) relating to requirements for data centers.
“I signed on as a co-sponsor of Representative Zimmerman and Senator Quinn’s bill to ensure data centers across Wisconsin do not adversely affect Wisconsinites,” said Representative Dallman. “AB 840 will protect Wisconsin families and businesses from unsustainable, rising costs and possible harmful environmental impacts from data centers.”
AB 840 requires that the Public Service Commission, which is charged with setting utility rates, ensure that no costs associated with energy used by data centers are passed onto other customers. The bill also requires data centers to use a closed-loop cooling system and submit annual reports to the Department of Natural Resources about their water consumption, ensuring water consumption is limited. Finally, other requirements include restoring any parcel of land where a data center would be partially constructed but was not completed.
“Most of what we do in everyday life involves a data center in some type of way – using the internet, cell phone, artificial intelligence, and cloud storage – which is why this bill is so important. It balances the demand for data centers while ensuring that data centers do not interfere with our rights, pocketbooks, or natural resources. I am looking forward to making sure this bill gets through the legislative process.”
Assembly Bill 840 now heads to the Committee on State Affairs for a public hearing and a vote before heading to the Assembly and Senate.
