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ARTICLE · 08 APRIL 2026

Texas Legislature Sets Its Sights On Data Centers And AI: What You Need To Know

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Texas House and Senate leadership recently released their interim charges, which serve as “homework assignments” for legislative committees to study before the 2027 session.

United StatesTechnology
David G. Cabrales
David G. Cabrales
John Sepehri
John Sepehri
Daniel Farris
Daniel Farris
Jeffery Atkin
Jeffery Atkin
Eric Blumrosen
Eric Blumrosen
David Markey
David Markey
Nicholas G. Peters
Nicholas G. Peters
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Texas House and Senate leadership recently released their interim charges, which serve as “homework assignments” for legislative committees to study before the 2027 session. These directives often form the foundation for future legislation, and can signal leadership priorities for the upcoming session.  This year’s charges show a clear focus on the rapid growth of data centers, artificial intelligence (AI), and their impact on the state’s infrastructure and the conduct of private and public business in the state.

The Growing Pains of Data Centers

  • Balancing Growth and Rights: Lawmakers are seeking ways to balance the economic benefits of data center growth against the impact on local landowners, private property rights, and community integrity.  Systemic potential economic benefit has brushed up against concerns local communities will have difficulty absorbing the impacts (Senate Business and Commerce Committee).

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