On Tuesday, August 25

6th, Mukwa, in partnership with MCEA, Vote Solar, Rise and Repair, and the affected community groups from Hermantown, Farmington, and Pine Island, met with the governor's office to call on Governor Walz to enact an executive order that would establish a 2-year moratorium on the construction of hyperscale data centers. The meeting was productive, and we express our gratitude to the Governor's office for the opportunity to advocate for the people of Minnesota and our precious lands.

In spite of the comprehensive insights and in-depth discussions provided by the communities and nonprofits regarding the environmental impacts of the existing hyperscale data centers, we have yet to receive any commitments. We also haven't been outright denied, the feedback from the governor's staff has been encouraging. We learned that Governor Walz has the power to impose a moratorium, but this authority would lapse three months into the term of a new governor. This three-month window coincides with the middle of a new legislative session, which will be crucial for advocating for safeguards and protections for the communities of Minnesota.

The 2025 data center legislation clearly fails to provide sufficient protection for Minnesotans against exploitative developers. This concern has been echoed by members of the affected communities, who cannot afford to wait until next year for a new legislative session. The only viable solution to halt the encroachment of these hyperscale data centers in their neighborhoods is to impose a moratorium. As many communities throughout Minnesota rush to establish their own moratoriums, it has become evident to Minnesotans that our towns, cities, and counties are ill-equipped to manage these multi-billion dollar international corporations.

We urge you to assist us in pushing Governor Walz to issue an executive order that places a moratorium on the development of hyperscale data centers. The Governor has recently demonstrated his commitment to safeguarding the Boundary Waters; now, we need him to extend that protection to all of Minnesota! Stand with us by emailing the Governor.

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