A campaign to ban construction of large data centers in Ohio is racing to collect 413,487 valid signatures by July 1 to qualify for the November ballot, underscoring the political backlash building around power demand, water use, infrastructure costs and local control. Similar fights are emerging nationally, with lawmakers in at least 11 states introducing legislation to temporarily ban data centers. The proposed Ohio constitutional amendment would prohibit new data centers with peak loads of more than 25 megawatts per month.

“Ohio should not slam the door on major technology investment, but frustration like this does not come out of nowhere,” said Lindsey Short, managing director of energy and advocacy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “When customers feel growth is being rushed, costs are being shifted and utilities are writing the rules, backlash becomes inevitable. The answer is not a statewide ban. It is transparency, accountability and protection for existing customers.” 4/30/2026