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Rep. Alex Burton from southwest Indiana has introduced legislation requiring data centers that use at least 10 million gallons of water monthly to obtain permits from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

The permit application must detail the center’s water usage, source, and measures for public health and water conservation. The bill could impact approximately 70 data centers in Indiana, with only one currently registered as a significant water withdrawal facility.

The initiative aims to address public concerns about water safety related to data centers, especially after local opposition to proposed centers due to environmental fears. While the Citizens Action Coalition supports the bill, they seek stronger public access to permit application information and clearer definitions of water consumption versus withdrawal. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce advocates for a more individualized permitting process.