Pennsylvania lawmakers are moving quickly to attract data centers and artificial intelligence infrastructure to our state. These facilities promise jobs and economic growth, but many communities are being left out of the conversation, even when the impact will fall directly on them.

From zoning meetings to community hearings, residents across Pennsylvania are raising the alarm. People are worried about increased traffic, noise pollution, light pollution, rising electric and water bills, lower property values, and long-term environmental effects. Some of these facilities are being approved near schools, homes, and farmland without clear public notice or transparent review.

Our elected officials, including Governor Josh Shapiro and Senator Dave McCormick, have said that data centers are coming no matter what. But we believe local residents deserve a say before their communities are changed forever.

We are calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly and Governor Shapiro to pass legislation that:

• Requires local government approval for any data center or AI infrastructure project
• Mandates public notice and hearings before permits can be granted
• Provides clear zoning guidelines to prevent industrial development near homes and schools
• Empowers townships and counties to reject or modify projects that threaten community well-being

Economic development should never come at the expense of clean air, quiet neighborhoods, or basic quality of life. Residents have the right to decide what gets built in their backyards. Right now, it feels like decisions are being made behind closed doors while communities are left with the consequences.

If Pennsylvania wants to be a leader in innovation, we must also lead in transparency, accountability, and respect for local voices.

Sign this petition if you believe that Pennsylvania communities, not just politicians, should have the final say on whether data centers are built in their neighborhoods.