Ohio House Passes Bill Establishing the Ohio Data Center Study Commission

State Representatives Gary Click (R-Vickery) and Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) today announced that the Ohio House unanimously passed House Bill 646 – legislation establishing the Ohio Data Center Study Commission.

This bill is in response to the rapid growth of data centers in Ohio and the many unanswered questions regarding their development. Key concerns include the use of agricultural land, noise pollution, water use and disposal, energy demand, national security, and much more. According to some estimates, roughly 200 data centers are operating in Ohio, and additional facilities are being proposed. 

“This legislation originated in the heart of the 88th district, in response to my constituents. They have questions that deserve answers. They are not alone. The entire Buckeye State is experiencing angst over unresolved questions surrounding the rapid rise of data centers, and they deserve to have their voices heard,” said Click. “The Ohio Data Center Study Commission is the first of its kind in the nation and will provide reasonable, rational, and meaningful answers to the questions that Ohioans are asking.” 

“Ohio has always been a leader in industry and innovation, from manufacturing to aerospace to advanced technology,” said Deeter. “With the rapid growth of the digital frontier, there are implications for our electric grid, our infrastructure, and the communities that host them. Rather than waiting to react after challenges arise, this legislation allows Ohio to study these issues now so we can make smart, informed decisions for the future.”

House Bill 646 would do the following:

• Create the Data Center Study Commission within the Department of Development, with members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President of the Senate that meet certain criteria
• Require the Commission to examine various topics regarding data centers 
• Require the Commission to submit a report of its findings and any legislative recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly not more than six months after the bill’s effective date

If enacted, the first Commission meeting must occur 45 days after the bill’s effective date.

House Bill 646 now heads to the Ohio Senate for consideration.