Governor Shifts Power to Towns on Data Centers | Philadelphia News

Governor Josh Shapiro just dropped the harshest data center rules in the nation, empowering towns to veto massive facilities with four ironclad requirements: cover your own energy, minimize noise and pollution, conserve water, hire locals, and give back through community deals. If a town says no, the state stands behind them. This bold move responds to rising backlash—like in western PA over a proposed racetrack site—where residents fear losing control. Meanwhile, critics accuse Shapiro of flip-flopping, citing past support and campaign ties. It’s a pivotal moment in the fight to return decision-making power to local communities. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9c4f4082816f55ed