Sen. Jarrett Coleman announced on Apr. 16 that he will introduce two new bills in response to constituent concerns about the impact of data centers and rising gas prices in Pennsylvania.
Coleman said the proposed legislation comes after a recent telephone town hall where more than 4,000 residents participated, with many expressing worries about ongoing data center construction and financial pressures from higher fuel costs. “I have heard concerns from many residents regarding the various data centers being constructed in their communities, as well as the financial burdens of the increasing gas prices,” Coleman said. “The two bills I will be introducing are the result of those conversations and serve as potential solutions to this ever-growing issue.”
The first bill aims to repeal Pennsylvania’s Computer Data Center Equipment Exemption program, which currently exempts certain equipment used in certified data centers from sales and use tax. If repealed, revenue would be directed to the Motor License Fund specifically to reduce the Oil Company Franchise Tax—a surcharge adding approximately 58 cents per gallon for gasoline and 74 cents per gallon for diesel sold in Pennsylvania.
The second bill would allow municipalities to place a moratorium on new data center applications so local governments could update ordinances or set conditional use policies addressing power supply, water consumption, noise levels, and property setbacks based on community needs. The measure is intended to help municipalities manage environmental and community impacts associated with rapid growth in this industry.
According to the official website, Pennsylvania State Sen. Jarrett Coleman focused on responsive representation to ensure government serves the people according to his official website. He chaired the Senate Intergovernmental Operations Committee and served as vice chair of the Senate Finance Committee according to his official website. He represented parts of Bucks and Lehigh counties in the 16th Senatorial District according to his official website, maintaining offices in Harrisburg, Allentown, and Quakertown for constituent services according to his official website.
Looking ahead, constituents can follow updates or review all legislation introduced by Coleman at www.palegis.us/senate/members/bio/2008/sen-coleman.
