New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an order pausing construction of large data centers for up to a year. The move marks the first statewide pause in the country. It halts new hyperscale data center approvals pending environmental rules.
The executive order directs state regulators to set standards on energy use, water consumption and other impacts before projects can advance. Hochul said she acted to protect consumers from higher utility bills and strain on water supplies.
The pause applies to large facilities and is expected to last up to one year. It is the first such statewide action in the United States.
The decision comes amid growing debate over the expansion of data centers needed for AI and other technologies. Hochul framed the step as necessary oversight rather than a permanent ban.
