House Concurrent Resolution No. by Representative Coates establishes a special task force, named the Interagency Data Center Consultation and Assessment Group, to study and provide recommendations regarding the interagency consultation process for data centers in Louisiana. This initiative arises from the significant increase in energy and water consumption by data centers, which are projected to consume a substantial portion of the state's natural resources. The task force aims to ensure comprehensive natural resource planning and management, particularly in light of recent drought conditions and the growing number of data centers in the state.
The Interagency Group will consist of various members from relevant state agencies and committees, tasked with investigating long-term energy and water demands, reviewing data center proposals, and identifying strategies for sustainable resource management. The group is required to hold public meetings, produce assessment reports for each proposed data center, and submit its findings to the legislature by February 27, 2026. This proactive approach seeks to mitigate potential conflicts over water and energy resources while supporting the economic development of data centers in Louisiana.