Rep. Webster supports Gov. Shapiro’s strong actions on data centers to protect our community

Governor’s executive order backs Webster’s legislation to hold big tech accountable

Rep. Joe Webster August 18, 2026 | 5:31 PM

HARRISBURG, Aug. 18 – State Rep. Joe Webster, D-Montgomery, today issued the following statement on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s executive order requiring strict controls on data center development:

“I am grateful to the Governor for his executive order which complements my House Bill 2650, placing restrictions on big tech’s data center plans for Pennsylvania. This order ensures that no development moves forward without a community’s approval and without meeting outlined conditions before any application can be considered. It also protects energy consumers and creates some best practices.

“The governor’s executive order aligns with multiple pieces of legislation that my colleagues and I passed in the House with bipartisan support. Unfortunately, the Senate has refused to consider these bills, so this executive action is a necessary step to protect our communities.

“There’s still more work that needs to be done to address the concerns of legislators and constituents around data centers, like securing a unified, strong commitment to PA’s constitutional guarantee of clean air and water. I will continue to advocate for the passage of the legislation that is currently stalled in the Senate. My gratitude to Governor Shapiro for taking this stand today to protect the rights of municipalities and to give them time to make the best decisions for their communities.”

Send Feedback