Ohio Farm Bureau Supports Study of Data Center Impacts with HB 646

The Ohio Farm Bureau recently testified in support of House Bill 646 (HB 646) before the Ohio House Technology and Innovation Committee. The legislation aims to establish a Data Center Study Commission to examine the growing impact of data center development across the state. Concerns range from water usage and electricity prices to the preservation of farmland.

Balancing Growth and Preservation

“While data centers may provide some benefits to our country, state, and local areas, the absence of a robust regulatory framework and long-term planning may lead to unforeseen repercussions,” said Evan Callicoat, Ohio Farm Bureau director of state policy. “Establishing a study commission allows for a thorough cost-benefit analysis to ensure we make informed decisions that serve Ohio well into the future.”

Key Areas of Study

Introduced by Representatives Gary Click and Kellie Deeter, HB 646 would task the commission with studying several critical factors associated with data center development, including:

• Environmental impacts
• Water use
• Electric grid reliability
• Farmland preservation

Ohio’s Data Center Landscape

Ohio currently ranks fifth nationally in the number of data centers, with approximately 200 facilities operating statewide – nearly double the number of any neighboring state. The Ohio Farm Bureau recognizes the role of technology and innovation in supporting the state’s economy, and acknowledges agriculture as a technologically advanced industry. However, members have raised concerns about the rapid pace of development and the significant infrastructure demands.

Farmland Preservation a Priority

Farmland preservation and land use are key concerns for Ohio Farm Bureau members. Ohio has lost 1 million acres of farmland over the past 20 years, and members seek to ensure responsible development that balances economic growth, private property rights, and farmland preservation. Callicoat emphasized the importance of farmland as a strategic resource and a vital part of national security, noting that once lost, productive agricultural land is unlikely to be recovered.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s Position

The Ohio Farm Bureau supports HB 646 as a measured step toward evaluating the impact of data centers, providing lawmakers with comprehensive information, and guiding long-term planning decisions. The organization is as well actively involved in addressing water quality issues related to data center development.

Further Information

To learn more about the impact of data centers and the Ohio Farm Bureau’s policy position, visit the recent Legal with Leah episode covering these issues.

Bill Status and Sponsors

As of February 25, 2026, HB 646 has been introduced in the House and is awaiting further action. The primary sponsors are Representatives Gary Click and Kellie Deeter. A full list of cosponsors includes Representatives Tim Barhorst, Adam C. Bird, Sean P. Brennan, Jack K. Daniels, Haraz N. Ghanbari, Jennifer Gross, Thomas Hall, Angela N. King, Brian Lorenz, Gayle Manning, Ty D. Mathews, Johnathan Newman, Justin Pizzulli, Phil Plummer, Tracy M. Richardson, Jodi Salvo, Jason Stephens, Brian Stewart, David Thomas, Josh Williams, and Heidi Workman. (Ohio Senate HB646, Ohio House Technology and Innovation Committee)