Data center bill advances unanimously, protecting ratepayers in the process

A bill sponsored by Miami Republican Sen. Bryan Ávila has unanimously passed through the Senate Community Affairs.

The proposed legislation (SB 484) seeks to establish comprehensive requirements for data centers operating in Florida.

“We want to make sure that Florida leads the way, not just in every economic initiative possible but certainly as it pertains to technology,” Ávila said. “We also want to strike that balance and make sure we protect our ratepayers from higher electricity costs.”

That balance was reinforced through the adoption of Amendment 781774, which passed without dissent. The amendment ensures that data centers will bear their own costs, safeguarding Florida residents from potential rate increases.

Beyond consumer protections, the legislation positions Florida to benefit economically from future data center development. An economic impact study conducted by the Regional Economic Consulting Group found that a 1-gigawatt facility in the state would create 45,000 temporary construction jobs and generate $263.5 million in sustained annual benefits for the regional economy.

“I think it’s courageous and very bold what you’re doing,” Lecanto Republican Sen. Ralph Massullo told Ávila. “You are making a way for us to move into the future. We have to make plans for our state to advance what we need for the future and protect our environment.”

Adam Basford of Associated Industries of Florida echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that the bill protects environmental interests while sending a message that Florida is open for business and thinking long term.

“If Florida wants to remain competitive and to protect our national security, we need a clear, predictable framework that allows these investments to happen here in Florida,” Basford urged. “Hyperscale data centers are critical infrastructure that support health care, logistics, finance and emergency services and the tools that businesses use every day.”

Additional advocates for the bill included Peter Abello of Florida Association of Counties and Ivonne Fernandez of AARP, both of whom waived in support.

“I ask for your support on this pro-consumer, pro-ratepayer initiative,” Ávila in closing.

SB 484 now heads to its final committee stop in the Senate Rules Committee before advancing to the Senate floor.