Virginia Governor Limits Data Center NDAs and Forms AI Task Force

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed Executive Order 22, introducing new oversight measures for data center development in the state. The order prohibits executive branch officials from signing non-disclosure agreements related to data center projects, aiming to increase transparency. It also calls for expedited noise regulations and a review of backup power operations used by data centers. Additionally, the order establishes an AI task force to assess potential risks that artificial intelligence poses to Virginia residents. The moves are notable given that Virginia already hosts the largest concentration of data centers in the world.