Senate Blocks AI Data Center Ratepayer…Senate Blocks AI Data Center Ratepayer Bill

The House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act by a 417-3 vote, but Sen. Martin Heinrich blocked expedited Senate consideration, arguing that the measure does not provide sufficiently enforceable protections for consumers and communities. The bill would establish a framework for states to require large data centers to cover costs associated with new power generation, transmission and related infrastructure, rather than shifting them to ratepayers. Heinrich promoted the stronger GRID Savings Act, while the Senate’s approaching adjournment makes action before the election unlikely.