Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation SB 484 Thursday at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland, creating new regulations to prevent large-scale data centers from passing utility costs onto Florida residents.
The law mandates that discussions regarding water use and utility impacts must occur during public meetings, enhancing community transparency. Additionally, facilities seeking state water resources must obtain a consumptive use permit.
DeSantis described SB 484 as the first legislation in the country to translate rhetoric around data centers into tangible protections. He emphasized that utility costs tied to these facilities will remain the responsibility of operators rather than taxpayers or consumers.
The bill addresses growing concerns about water and electricity demands from massive AI infrastructure, which has expanded nationwide. Florida Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly noted the law balances economic growth with public accountability by ensuring data center companies cover their own operational expenses.
DeSantis also stressed the need for a national framework governing artificial intelligence to prevent actions that could harm individuals and communities. He stated that AI data centers do not generate meaningful local employment and should not burden residents with energy costs.
The legislation follows Fort Meade’s approval of plans for a major “hyperscale” AI data center project, which has faced significant opposition from residents and state officials. DeSantis confirmed Florida currently has no operational data centers but several proposals under review.
“ heating the hard-working Floridian shouldn’t have to subsidize some of the wealthiest companies in all of humanity,” DeSantis said. He noted that Florida is among the first states to codify such consumer protections into law.
