(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - State Representative Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) on Wednesday voted in support of House Bill 646 - legislation establishing the Ohio Data Center Study Commission.

House Bill 646, legislation that Rep. Stewart co-sponsors, is in response to the rapid growth of data centers in Ohio and the many unanswered questions regarding their development. Key concerns include the use of agricultural land, noise pollution, water use and disposal, energy demand, national security, and much more. According to some estimates, roughly 200 data centers are operating in Ohio, and additional facilities are being proposed.

"A thorough review and investigation by the Ohio General Assembly of data centers is necessary as they have generated many legitimate concerns in my district, and many others," said Stewart. "I'm glad to have voted yes for this legislation."

House Bill 646 would do the following:

Create the Data Center Study Commission within the Department of Development, with members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President of the Senate that meet certain criteria
Require the Commission to examine various topics regarding data centers
Require the Commission to submit a report of its findings and any legislative recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly not more than six months after the bill's effective date

If enacted, the first Commission meeting must occur 45 days after the bill's effective date.

House Bill 646 now heads to the Ohio Senate for consideration.