South Carolina lawmakers propose pausing new data center projects until 2028 over water, power, and infrastructure concerns.

South Carolina lawmakers have introduced a bill to pause new data center projects until 2028, citing concerns over water use, rising utility costs, and infrastructure strain, particularly in Marion County. The resolution defines data centers and would require transparency in incentive negotiations, aiming to ensure local governments can assess environmental and economic impacts. While some companies claim construction won’t burden ratepayers, residents and officials urge stronger oversight, calling for mandates on power infrastructure and closed-loop water systems. A similar bill in the Senate seeks to enforce accountability, as communities worry about hidden costs and public health risks linked to data center expansion.