HB 153 (Thomas) Data centers; site assessment; high energy use facility

Provides that prior to any approval of a rezoning application, special exception application, or special use permit for the siting of a new high energy use facility (HEUF), as defined in the bill, a locality shall require that an applicant perform and submit a site assessment to examine the sound profile of the HEUF on residential units and schools located within 500 feet of the HEUF property boundary. The bill also allows a locality to require that a site assessment examine the effect of the proposed HEUF facility on (i) ground and surface water resources, (ii) agricultural resources, (iii) parks, (iv) registered historic sites, and (v) forestland on the HEUF site or immediately contiguous land. The bill provides that its provisions shall not be construed to prohibit, limit, or otherwise supersede existing local zoning authority.

 

Counties, Cities and Towns; Subc: #2 recommends reporting with substitute (8-Y 0-N)

Reported from CC&T with substitute (17-Y 2-N)
Incorporates HB 511 (McAuliff)

Passed House (90-Y 7-N 0-A)

Reported from Local Government; referred to Finance and Approps (13-Y 2-N)

Reported Finance and Approps (10-Y 4-N)
Passed Senate with substitute (26-Y 14-N 0-A)