Where they stand on data centers
On concerns about hyperscale data centers
Many people are concerned about the natural resources that large-scale data centers consume. They worry about increased electricity demand driving up utility costs and placing strain on local power grids. Others are concerned about the enormous amounts of water some facilities require for cooling, especially in rural or drought-prone areas. There are also concerns about the constant noise and light pollution that can come from large industrial-scale data centers operating 24 hours a day. Some residents have raised questions about EMF emissions and the potential long-term effects they may have on the health of people, livestock, and wildlife. Others are concerned about the broader implications of modern data collection and surveillance technology. They worry that data centers can play a role in storing and processing massive amounts of personal information, raising concerns about privacy, security, and the potential misuse of sensitive data.
How they’d address those concerns
To address these concerns, I would do my best through legislation to keep large-scale data centers out of South Dakota. If they were to come to our state, they should be required to pay their own way with absolutely no taxpayer-funded incentives or tax breaks. I would support legislation requiring data centers to provide and sustain their own energy and water sources rather than placing additional strain on local infrastructure and natural resources. South Dakota is already experiencing declining water resources in some areas, and our extreme weather conditions make the risk of brownouts and power strain during blistering summers and freezing winters a serious concern. I would also support strong regulations on sound, light, and EMF emissions to help protect the health, quality of life, and property rights of nearby residents. In addition, I would back legislation focused on protecting people's privacy, personal data, and overall safety in an age of expanding digital surveillance and information collection.
Other candidates in this race
State House · District 26B