Republicans debate timing and scope of data-center ratepayer protection bill

Republican lawmakers are wrestling with a data-center legislation that would require utilities and large-load customers to cover grid-upgrade costs, preventing those expenses from being shifted to consumers. The bill, approved unanimously by the Energy and Commerce Committee, is championed by Reps. Gabe Evans and Kathy Castor, both in tight re-election races.

Committee chair Brett Guthrie says a vote could occur after Labor Day, but no final timetable has been set as GOP leaders weigh member concerns. A related water-cost proposal is still in a discussion draft stage, and opponents claim the measures single out data centers, could curb domestic AI growth, and impose a one-size-fits-all federal standard. Proponents counter that the legislation protects local communities, supports U.S. competitiveness against China, and aligns with a Trump-era “Ratepayer Protection Pledge” signed by major tech firms.