MAINE GOVERNOR VETOES DATA CENTER MORATORIUM

The bill, which passed both chambers of the Maine legislature on April 14, would have halted construction of data centers consuming 20 megawatts or more of power. Mills rejected the measure despite previously signaling openness to a temporary moratorium. The governor's primary objection centered on an exemption she sought for an existing data center project in Jay, Maine. She argued the blanket ban would undermine economic development opportunities in parts of the state that need investment. The veto reflects broader tension between environmental and energy concerns raised by data center development and economic development pressures in rural areas. Maine has emerged as a potential hub for large data infrastructure projects, with existing ventures already underway. The legislature would need a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override the veto. No timeline for such action has been announced.