HB 5620
To restore local control in the decision making process in regard to data centers
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to give local governments more control over the development of data centers and microgrid districts in West Virginia. It prohibits counties and municipalities from imposing regulations that could hinder the creation or operation of these projects, such as zoning restrictions or permitting requirements. The bill also establishes a ‘Data Economy Liaison’ within the Department of Commerce to streamline the process and ensures that data centers and microgrids pay local taxes and fees similar to other businesses.
Key provisions
- Prohibits counties and municipalities from enacting ordinances that limit the creation or operation of certified microgrid districts and high-impact data centers.
- Designates a ‘Data Economy Liaison’ within the Department of Commerce to coordinate development.
- Requires data centers and microgrids to pay local taxes, fees, and service charges.
- Exempts certified microgrid districts and high-impact data centers from certain county and municipal regulations (zoning, permits, etc.).
- Allows the Department of Commerce, Environmental Protection, and Transportation to take actions to support project development.
- Authorizes the Department of Commerce to promulgate rules to implement the bill.
- Defines ‘certified microgrid district’ and ‘certified high impact data center’ based on Department of Commerce certification.
- Specifies that utility customers within a microgrid district should not bear construction or operational costs for new utility infrastructure.
Who is affected
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