Maryland Lawmakers Override Governor's Veto to Study Data Center Impact

Maryland lawmakers have overridden Governor Wes Moore's veto to mandate a study on the impact of data centers in the state. The General Assembly's decision, supported by a bipartisan vote of 111-24 in the House and 44-0 in the Senate, responds to the increasing establishment of data centers, particularly in Frederick County.

The study, to be conducted by state agencies and the University of Maryland School of Business, aims to assess the environmental, energy, and economic effects of data center development. It is estimated to cost $502,000 and will commence in July, concluding by September 2026.

Alongside this, lawmakers also moved to override vetoes on studies related to reparations and climate change. The override on the reparations commission, a priority for the Legislative Black Caucus, passed with a margin of 93-35 in the House. The RENEW Act study, focusing on climate impacts, also received legislative support despite Moore's previous veto.