Overview
- Republican gubernatorial nominee and State Treasurer Stacy Garrity has called for an indefinite pause on new AI and data center projects so local governments can revise zoning and establish protections for energy ratepayers.
- The House-passed Governor’s Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) standards would require developers to apply to the state explaining how projects protect energy affordability and the environment and could make firms eligible for tax benefits on equipment sales.
- The Shapiro campaign rejected Garrity’s call, saying the governor worked with community, labor and environmental leaders to craft strong data center rules and accusing Garrity of a mixed record on regulation.
- State Rep. Aaron Bernstine joined Garrity in arguing for local control and against a one-size-fits-all approach from Harrisburg, making the issue a visible wedge in the November governor’s race.
- The dispute reflects broader national tensions over data centers — including worries about who pays for grid upgrades, tax incentives for developers, and local impacts — and could shape state policy and utility costs if GRID is amended or paused.