AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026
Latest action (23 Apr 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
The AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026 would require companies developing, owning, or operating AI-focused data centers to publicly disclose plans before construction begins. At least 180 days before taking a "definitive step" toward establishing such a facility—such as signing a property lease, securing utility power agreements, or beginning site work—developers would have to notify local elected officials and the public through a press release detailing the location, estimated resource needs, and environmental impact. Developers would also need to engage local media, use social media, send direct mail, post signage at the site, and provide materials in multiple languages. An independent, developer-funded environmental impact analysis would be required. The bill also limits the use of non-disclosure agreements during the development process and bars their use with government entities or regarding public resources.
The bill affects companies and consortiums involved in AI data center projects that engage in interstate commerce, as well as communities near proposed sites and local officials who represent them. Multiple companies working together on one project would have to issue a joint disclosure and would share legal responsibility for compliance. The Federal Trade Commission would enforce the requirements, treating violations as unfair or deceptive practices under the FTC Act, with associated penalties.
The bill was introduced in the House on April 23, 2026, by Rep. LaMonica McIver with eight cosponsors, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. It would need committee consideration, House and Senate passage, and the President's signature to become law.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on April 23, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 8488 do?
- The AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026 would require companies developing, owning, or operating AI-focused data centers to publicly disclose plans before construction begins. At least 180 days before taking a "definitive step" toward establishing such a facility—such as signing a property lease, securing utility power agreements, or beginning site work—developers would have to notify local elected officials and the public through a press release detailing the location, estimated resource needs, and environmental impact. Developers would also need to engage local media, use social media, send direct mail, post signage at the site, and provide materials in multiple languages. An independent, developer-funded environmental impact analysis would be required. The bill also limits the use of non-disclosure agreements during the development process and bars their use with government entities or regarding public resources. The bill affects companies and consortiums involved in AI data center projects that engage in interstate commerce, as well as communities near proposed sites and local officials who represent them. Multiple companies working together on one project would have to issue a joint disclosure and would share legal responsibility for compliance. The Federal Trade Commission would enforce the requirements, treating violations as unfair or deceptive practices under the FTC Act, with associated penalties. The bill was introduced in the House on April 23, 2026, by Rep. LaMonica McIver with eight cosponsors, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. It would need committee consideration, House and Senate passage, and the President's signature to become law.
- Has H.R. 8488 become law?
- Not yet. As of 23 Apr 2026, H.R. 8488 is introduced.
- Who sponsored H.R. 8488?
- H.R. 8488 was sponsored by Rep. LaMonica McIver [D-NJ10] (Democrat-NJ), with 10 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 8488?
- Introduced (23 Apr 2026).
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