Data center projects in Pennsylvania face stronger local scrutiny after Shapiro’s executive order

Governors across the country are relying on their executive powers to address the increasing public backlash against data center proposals. In July 2026, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul placed an effective moratorium on data center permitting until the state’s Department of Public Service creates a generic environmental impact statement regarding the impacts of data centers. Similarly, in August 2026, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced a moratorium on data centers until state agencies can audit data…