Heffley: Executive Order Restricting Data Centers a Step in the Right Direction; More Must Be Done

August 19, 2026

HARRISBURG - Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) offered the following statement after Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order restricting data center development:

"When I speak with residents of Carbon County, I've heard their concerns regarding data center proposals and their potential impact on our land, water resources and electric grid.

"I've supported bills that would require data center developers to pay their fair share, respect local decision-making and protect our environment.

"Today, Gov. Shapiro signed an executive order that takes steps in the same direction for which I have advocated.

"While I welcome these steps, the executive order needs to go further to protect communities and preserve local decision-making authority so that local governments are held accountable and ensure residents are not left paying the costs associated with these massive developments.

"It must be noted the executive order also comes at a time when only five data center proposals across the state have secured the permits they would need to begin operating.

"The fact that developers are pursuing numerous proposals across the Commonwealth, while relatively few have secured necessary permits, demonstrates the shotgun approach being taken to identify potential sites.

"I will continue advocating for all Carbon County communities as the House considers future legislation dealing with the impact of data centers."

You can watch remarks Rep. Doyle Heffley made regarding the executive order restricting data center development here.

Representative Doyle Heffley
122nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andrew Forgotch
717.772.9905
[email protected]
RepHeffley.com / Facebook.com/RepHeffley