There is already significant controversy surrounding large AI data centers and their potential effects on communities, power use and the environment.

Could New Jersey take additional steps to slow the rapidly expanding AI data center industry?

This week, Assemblywoman Annette Quijano introduced a bill in Trenton that would delay approvals, construction, expansion, subsidies and tax incentives for large AI data centers.

The bill would also create a 12-person commission to study the potential impact on New Jersey and report its findings within two years, possibly leading to new regulations.

Meanwhile, more New Jersey municipalities are seeking to prohibit the construction of AI data centers.

Linden introduced an ordinance at Monday night’s City Council meeting. Manchester and Upper townships recently approved restrictions.

That brings the number of communities that have adopted restrictions to about 90, citing concerns about energy use, water consumption, noise and quality-of-life impacts.

Gov. Sherrill is not seeking to fully halt the AI data center boom. Instead, she has signed guidelines into law.

Data centers will now be required to report their energy and water use and invest in communities.