Virginia Governor Signs Executive Order: Establishes AI Task Force and Cracks Down on Data Center Expansion

Overview

On September 18, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed Executive Order 22, aiming to strengthen the state’s oversight of artificial intelligence risks and strictly curb the unchecked expansion of data centers. As one of the regions with the highest density of data centers in the world, Virginia’s move signals that the state government is attempting to strike a new balance between supporting the tech industry and protecting community interests.

Core Contents of the Executive Order

The executive order explicitly prohibits administrative officials from signing confidentiality agreements regarding data center projects, requires the development of accelerated noise regulation provisions, and initiates a comprehensive review of the operation of data center backup generators. Additionally, the order establishes a specialized AI Special Task Force, responsible for assessing labor displacement risks and data privacy issues posed by technological advancements, and exploring how existing laws can be applied to damages caused by artificial intelligence.

“This initiative aims to empower local communities, ensuring they are no longer in a passive position when facing large-scale infrastructure projects.”

Notably, Virginia is not alone. California Governor Gavin Newsom, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and Texas Governor Greg Abbott have recently intervened in the rapid development of data centers through executive actions, reflecting how states are filling the regulatory gap left at the federal level.

Introduction of the “Data Center Accountability Framework”

In addition to the executive order, Spanberger also released a new Data Center Accountability Framework, proposing a series of specific reform measures:

• Abolish “Vested Right Approval” System: End practices such as those long allowed in Loudoun County, where developers could build on certain lands without additional approval.
• Cut State Subsidies: Reevaluate and remove some fiscal incentive policies targeting data center builders.
• Establish Environmental Guardrails: Strengthen regulation of power consumption and environmental impact.
• Protect Residents’ Rights: Prevent local residents from being harmed by rising energy costs due to data center expansion.

Reactions and Controversies

Following the policy announcement, multiple environmental organizations publicly praised Spanberger’s stance. However, some radical environmental groups argued that the measures were still insufficient. For example, the Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC), which has long advocated for a moratorium on new projects, saw its chairman Chris Miller point out that the current policy mainly focuses on regulating new constructions, but fails to effectively address the cumulative impact of completed and under-construction projects on communities.

As demand for AI computing power surges, the controversies surrounding the energy, environmental, and social costs of data centers will continue to brew. Whether Virginia’s pilot policy can become a model for the entire nation remains to be seen.