Virginia Gov. Spanberger Establishes AI Task Force and Tightens Data Center Oversight

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger issued Executive Order 22 to give local communities more influence over data‑center development in a state already dubbed the data‑center capital of the world. The order directs state agencies to slow approvals for new projects and requires that any data‑center proposals undergo a review of backup‑generation operations, expedited noise‑regulation assessments, and a broader evaluation of environmental and safety impacts.

Under the order, executive‑branch officials are prohibited from signing non‑disclosure agreements (NDAs) related to data‑center projects, a move intended to increase transparency and public participation. In addition, the governor has established an AI task force tasked with assessing how state policies can mitigate risks to Virginians from emerging artificial‑intelligence technologies, ensuring that growth in the sector does not outpace safeguards for residents.

The administration’s actions signal a shift toward more stringent oversight of the data‑center boom, aiming to balance economic benefits with community concerns and regulatory clarity. The Verge reports that the order will be implemented through existing state agencies and is expected to influence future data‑center approvals across Virginia.