Prop 45 in California could be hiding a loophole for data centers
California’s Proposition 45 would speed up environmental reviews for projects classed as “essential” and make legal challenges harder. Environmental advocates and some legal experts warn that data centre developers could qualify under the measure’s broadband internet category, allowing projects to proceed with less public scrutiny.
The proposal sets a 365-day deadline for environmental impact reports and a 270-day limit for legal challenges, while capping public comment at 45 days. It would also narrow required tribal consultation, shift responsibility for proposing alternatives to developers, limit regulators’ ability to request more information later and prevent courts from halting an entire project over CEQA failures. Supporters say the measure could help address housing shortages and rising electricity demand with renewable energy projects.
In short
- Prop 45 would speed up environmental reviews for eligible projects.
- Critics say data centres could qualify through the broadband category.
- The measure would limit public input and courts’ ability to stop projects.
Elections Environment Politics Science Software Technology