The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday aimed at requiring AI data centers to pay their significant energy costs. This action was taken on the last day of legislation before the midterm elections and responds to growing voter concerns.
Bill Details
The bill directs state public service regulators to consider a standard under which utilities calculate the full cost of power and upgrades needed to supply energy to data centers. The bill was passed with a vote of 417 to 3.
Read more: Technologists called for regulation in the field of artificial intelligence
Representatives' Opinions
Supporters of the bill described it as a "humble first step" in supporting families and businesses against rising public utility costs. Frank Pallone, a Democratic representative and chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, stated: "I promise that this bill is not the end of our focus on these issues. This is just the beginning."
Some lawmakers are calling for a complete suspension of AI data centers until necessary measures are taken to ensure the safety and efficiency of AI and to prevent increases in public utility prices or harm to the environment. Additionally, over 100 Democrats sent a letter to Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House, requesting a continuation of the House session this month to advance meaningful actions on AI safety.
Social Impacts
Johnson remarked that this action creates a "proper balance" between protecting local communities and maintaining America's advancements in AI development. At the same time, Representative Steve Scalise from Louisiana pointed to the positive impacts of data centers on the community, noting that the development of a data center in Richland Parish has led to increased tax revenue and significant bonuses for local teachers.
However, Pallone emphasized the real concerns of Americans regarding the impact of data centers on them and referenced criticisms of Republican leadership. He added that nearly two-thirds of Americans are worried about the impact of data centers on energy prices, and more than half are concerned about its effect on water resources.
Gabriel Evans, a Republican representative and supporter of the bill, stated that the United States must develop its energy systems to meet demand and avoid reliance on other countries like China for digital infrastructure. He added: "We cannot accelerate this growth based on the hard work of Americans to pay their electricity bills at the end of the month."
Read more: Mark Zuckerberg distanced himself from the call for a coordinated reduction in AI development · Asian stocks are fluctuating, attention to oil prices and AI stocks continues
Source: abcnews.com
