The bill establishes regulations concerning the siting and development of large load data centers in Kansas. Specifically, it prohibits the installation, placement, construction, or operation of any new large load data center in counties that have experienced a drought emergency within the past three years. The definition of a "large load data center" is provided, indicating that it refers to facilities with a monthly maximum electrical demand of 10 megawatts or more. The board of county commissioners in affected counties is mandated to deny any such projects during the specified three-year period and may issue a moratorium on these activities.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not apply to large load data centers that were already authorized or operational before July 1, 2026. It allows counties and cities to adopt more restrictive planning and land use regulations than those outlined in the bill. The bill also amends existing legal language in K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 19-101a, removing certain phrases and clarifying the powers of county commissioners regarding local legislation. The existing section of K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 19-101a is repealed, and the act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 12-741, 19-101a