Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders propose moratorium on new data centers over environmental and consumer concerns

The legislation by Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont is unlikely to advance in either the House or Senate, but it shows the deep concerns many progressives share about the growing impact of data centers and artificial intelligence.

Still, it reflects a backlash against data centers over fears about rising electricity prices and concerns about pollution and water consumption.

President Donald Trump has sought to allay concerns, securing commitments from major technology companies to develop their own power generation and cover the expense of infrastructure upgrades.