Summary

• HB 2014 shifts major data center siting and certification decisions from counties to the state and limits local zoning authority.
• Tucker County residents and environmental groups oppose Fundamental Data’s proposed Ridgeline complex over potential effects on land, water, air, roads, noise, and community control.
• The Department of Commerce says Ridgeline qualifies as a high-impact data center and that Fundamental Data missed a certification deadline; the company disputes that interpretation.
• Ridgeline plans described by state officials include more than 2 gigawatts of data center demand in Phase 1, with additional gas-fired generation and capacity proposed in Phase 2.
• Advocates have asked the Department of Environmental Protection to investigate conflicting claims about who controls parcels covered by Fundamental Data’s air-quality permit.
• The law’s tax structure would direct much of the property-tax revenue from qualifying projects to the state, reducing the share available to local taxing bodies.
• The issue is becoming politically salient as lawmakers defend the law despite strong reported opposition from residents and public commenters.