‘They’re already here’: Regulating data centers stalls in Missouri

By: Sterling Sewell, Max Quinn

Outlets: Missouri Independent

Published: June 5, 2026

Words: 2,029

Last Updated: 5 days, 9 hours ago

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The rapid expansion of hyperscale data centers is far outstripping efforts to regulate them in Missouri and other states.

As a result, communities are left with failed legislation, hastily called moratoriums and divisive local elections to address the massive industrial facilities popping up across rural America.

“Legislation traditionally lags very far behind technology, and that can create some problems,” said state Rep. Mike Costlow, a Republican from Dardenne Prairie. His bill and others regulating data …

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