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Jenifer Rajkumar backs pause on new data centers in NY
Measure would halt new permits while state agencies study environmental, energy and economic impacts
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Malvika Choudhary - Tue, 02, Jun 2026
- 11:27 EDT
- 34
Jenifer Rajkumar / New India Abroad
New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar backed legislation that would temporarily halt permits for new large-scale data centers while the state studies their environmental, energy and economic impacts.
In a statement released in support of Assembly Bill A10141A, Rajkumar said the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies presents significant opportunities for innovation and economic growth, but argued that the state must ensure that such growth does not come at the expense of communities, natural resources or working families.
"I proudly support A10141A, legislation establishing a temporary moratorium on new large-scale data center permits while New York conducts a comprehensive assessment of their environmental, energy, and economic impacts," Rajkumar said.
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The lawmaker said data centers consume substantial amounts of electricity and water, place additional demands on infrastructure, and can contribute to higher utility costs for residents and small businesses.
I am supporting a temporary moratorium on new data centers because New York must balance innovation with accountability.
— Jenifer Rajkumar (@JeniferRajkumar) June 1, 2026
We can lead the nation in technological progress while protecting ratepayers, safeguarding natural resources, and ensuring no community bears disproportionate… pic.twitter.com/v6H9Hx2M7B
She said New York should evaluate the cumulative effects of additional facilities on the state's electric grid, climate goals, environmental justice communities and household energy bills before approving new projects.
According to Rajkumar, the proposed legislation would not permanently prohibit data center development. Instead, it would provide time for the state to conduct environmental reviews, establish standards and ensure that the costs associated with private development are not transferred to New York residents.
"A10141A takes a responsible and measured approach. It does not permanently prohibit development. Rather, it provides the time necessary for the state to conduct rigorous environmental review, establish clear standards, and ensure that the costs of private development are not shifted onto everyday New Yorkers," she said.
Rajkumar also said lawmakers must balance technological advancement with accountability. In a post on social media, she said she supports a temporary moratorium because "New York must balance innovation with accountability."
"We can lead the nation in technological progress while protecting ratepayers, safeguarding natural resources, and ensuring no community bears disproportionate burdens," she wrote.
The assemblywoman said the measure would help New York pursue technological development while maintaining oversight of its environmental and economic consequences, adding that the state should aim to lead the nation in both innovation and responsible governance.
The legislation, introduced by Assemblymember Anna Kelles and sponsored in the Senate by Liz Krueger, would temporarily halt the issuance of permits for new data centers while state agencies study their environmental and economic effects.
The bill also directs the New York Public Service Commission to examine the impact of data centers on electricity and gas rates and develop measures to shield residential, commercial and industrial customers from additional costs.
According to the bill's sponsors, the proposal would establish a moratorium lasting at least three years and 90 days. During that period, the Department of Environmental Conservation would be required to complete an environmental impact review and develop any regulations needed to address the industry's effects, while the Public Service Commission would prepare a report on utility-rate impacts. Existing permits and permit renewals would not be affected.
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