AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026

New transparency rules for AI data centers

If enacted, this bill would require a covered entity planning an AI-focused data center to disclose key details at least 180 days before a defined "definitive step." Developers would notify each relevant local elected official and issue a public press release naming the proposed site, estimated resources needed, and an environmental AI impact assessment. The environmental analysis would have to be performed by an independent third party and paid for by the developer. Developers would also be required to do outreach through local media, social media, direct mail to the affected area, onsite signage, and materials in multiple languages including English and Spanish. The bill would limit nondisclosure agreements and bar NDAs that hide information about government entities or public resources, and it would require a single joint disclosure when multiple entities are involved. The bill would define "AI-focused data center" and related terms, and it would let the Federal Trade Commission enforce the disclosure rules as unfair or deceptive acts with the FTC Act's remedies.