MD SB116

Department of the Environment, Maryland Energy Administration, and University of Maryland School of Business must conduct an analysis of environmental, energy, and economic impacts of data center development in Maryland, coordinated by the Department of Legislative Services

Environmental assessment must evaluate impacts on air and water quality, effects on bay restoration goals, and availability of mitigation technologies for data centers

Energy assessment must examine data center energy requirements, impacts on energy demand and supply, effects on infrastructure costs paid by ratepayers, and implications for greenhouse gas reduction and clean energy goals

Economic assessment must analyze impacts on State and local revenues and expenditures, as well as jobs created through data center construction and operation

Final report due to the Governor and General Assembly by September 1, 2026; the Act takes effect July 1, 2025 and automatically sunsets on June 30, 2027