Alabama Senate Passes Data Center Bills

0:00It's March 13th. Here's your Birmingham News in two minutes. The Alabama Senate passed two bills this week, aimed at curbing incentives for data centers. The first, sponsored by State Senator Andrew Jones from Center, caps tax abatements at 20 years, starting January 1st, 2027. It also makes large data centers pay state sales and use taxes on their purchases from that date and extends the overall program deadline. Meanwhile, a second bill by State Senator Lance Bell from Pell City, won unanimous approval. This measure, part of the Alabama Affordability Protection Plan, blocks data centers from passing their high energy costs onto regular businesses and families. These moves come amid growing concerns over the massive power needs of data centers. Lawmakers want to stay competitive for business, but avoid overly generous deals that strain state resources. Energy Alabama, a group pushing for clean energy, cheered Bell's bill for protecting everyday customers. They worry it ensures data centers cover their own electricity

1:01bills without hiking rates for others. The bills now head to the House for Review, while related utility regulation measures remain in play. Officials say this could reshape how Alabama attracts tech giants without footing the full bill. D&N is sponsored by our partner. Check out the episode description. Layback, press play, let the pillow do the rest. Sound meets comfort. S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.