Virginia Establishes AI Task Force and Tightens Data Center Regulations

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed Executive Order 22 to create an AI Task Force and introduced a Data Center Accountability Framework. The policy bans state non-disclosure agreements for commercial projects, tightens noise and generator audits, and shifts grid infrastructure costs to data center operators. As Northern Virginia handles a massive share of global internet traffic and AI infrastructure, these rules protect residential utility customers from bearing the high costs of grid expansion. It sets a key regulatory benchmark for how major tech hubs balance rapid computing growth with environmental impact and grid stability. The framework restricts behind-the-meter natural gas power generation, prioritizes grid connections for facilities investing in clean energy, and requires stronger financial commitments for PJM grid interconnection costs. While executive actions take effect immediately, several proposed environmental and cost-allocation rules will require state legislative approval in 2027.