This bill establishes a moratorium on the issuance of permits for new data centers in Minnesota until one year after the Public Utility Commission submits a comprehensive report on data center development. The report, due by July 1, 2027, or extended to January 1, 2028, if necessary, will assess various aspects of data center operations, including energy, water, and metals usage, localized impacts, and effects on federal- and state-listed species, as well as Tribal Nations' treaty rights. The report will also analyze the economic impacts of data centers at both local and state levels, identify suitable locations for new data centers, and evaluate other related risks through public comment periods.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the commission consult with Minnesota Tribal governments during the report's creation and requires any third-party contractor involved in the report to undergo a conflict of interest evaluation to ensure independence from data center developers. The moratorium aims to ensure that data center development is carefully considered in light of its environmental and economic implications before any new permits are granted.