Lawrence rolls out plan to regulate data centers in Michigan

While campaigning for the 7th Congressional District, Lansing‑area organizer William Lawrence has made opposition to data centers a key facet of his campaign. On Thursday, he rolled out a plan titled “Stop Tech Overreach” that expands his promises to push for a federal moratorium on data center development and establish proper guardrails.

The plan calls for a national AI compact, environmental protections around data center development, safety requirements for new AI models, and a national jobs program funded through a tax on AI industry profits. The jobs program would create positions for the elderly, improve public lands, restore wetlands, strengthen recreational and community centers, and support small businesses and farmers.

Barrett’s campaign has criticized Lawrence for voting in favor of the House version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which included a 10‑year moratorium on state governments regulating AI. However, Barrett’s strategist, Jason Roe, said the two candidates are aligned in their concerns about AI, and both diverge on the federal government’s role in regulating local land use and zoning decisions.

Read the full story at Lansing City Pulse.