Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) introduced the Artificial Intelligence Data Center Moratorium Act on March 25, calling for an immediate nationwide pause on new AI data center construction until Congress passes federal safeguards.

What the Bill Does

The legislation would halt construction of new or significantly expanded AI data centers until three conditions are met:

  • Safety: AI products cannot be released if they threaten health, privacy, or civil rights.
  • Labor protections: Economic gains from AI and robotics must benefit workers, not just tech executives and shareholders.
  • Energy and environment: AI infrastructure cannot raise electricity bills, harm communities, or damage the environment.

The bill also bans US exports of AI computing infrastructure to countries that lack equivalent safeguards — an explicit attempt to slow a global race to automate jobs or build unsafe systems.

The Scope

More than 100 local communities around the US have already enacted their own data center moratoriums, and 12 states are pursuing statewide versions. The bill frames federal action as overdue.

Sanders cited a 2025 survey showing 72% of US teens have used AI companions, with over half using them regularly, raising concerns about social isolation. AOC pointed to AI-assisted ICE surveillance, deepfake abuse, and energy-driven utility price spikes in affected communities.

Industry Reaction

The Data Center Coalition called any moratorium likely to eliminate high-wage jobs, drain tax revenue, and raise costs for families and businesses. Major AI companies have not publicly responded. The bill is considered unlikely to advance under the current administration, but it signals growing political pressure on AI's resource footprint and social impact.