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Ohio Residents Push Amendment Against Large Data Centers

3/31/2026

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Ohio Residents' Amendment

Ohio residents have proposed a constitutional amendment to block new large-scale data centers that exceed a 25-megawatt energy usage threshold.
The Ohio Attorney General has approved the petition for signature collection.
Critics, including Dublin resident Amy Swank, worry about higher energy costs and environmental impacts and fear data centers may become obsolete.
The Ohio Supreme Court is deliberating on HB 68, which bans gender-affirming care for minors, highlighting a conflict between parental rights and state regulations.
The outcomes of these issues could significantly affect Ohio's economy and healthcare landscape.

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Ohio House Legislation

The Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 249, the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act, to ban drag performances outside adult venues.
Critics say the bill infringes free expression rights and targets transgender individuals.
Supporters argue it protects children from inappropriate content.
The bill includes penalties for violations, potentially leading to felony charges.
Federal courts have blocked similar laws in Tennessee and Montana, while a Texas bill has been upheld.

History

Historical Context

The Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 spurred energy conservation and deregulation across the U.S., influencing Ohio's recent proposal to limit data centers to 25 megawatts amid rising energy costs. This reflects ongoing debates reminiscent of the 1970s energy crisis, while current discussions on HB 68 and House Bill 249 highlight tensions between state regulations and individual rights, echoing historical legislative struggles in Ohio.

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Ohio Residents' Amendment

Ohio residents have proposed a constitutional amendment to block new large-scale data centers that exceed a 25-megawatt energy usage threshold.
The Ohio Attorney General has approved the petition for signature collection.
Critics, including Dublin resident Amy Swank, worry about higher energy costs and environmental impacts and fear data centers may become obsolete.
The Ohio Supreme Court is deliberating on HB 68, which bans gender-affirming care for minors, highlighting a conflict between parental rights and state regulations.
The outcomes of these issues could significantly affect Ohio's economy and healthcare landscape.

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