JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – State Representative Don Mayhew (R-124) has announced that he has spearheaded an effort alongside a coalition of fellow members of the Missouri House of Representatives urging Governor Mike Kehoe to call a Special Session of the General Assembly.
The proposed session is hoped to specifically address the pressing challenges and community concerns brought on by the rapid expansion of large-scale data centers across the state before irreversible long-term impacts are made.
Representative Mayhew emphasized that the potential strain of these massive facilities place on our state’s electrical infrastructure, water resources, local roads, and consumer data privacy requires immediate legislative action.
“The General Assembly should not wait until the next regular legislative session to address these concerns,” added Mayhew, R-Crocker. “The rapid emergence of these data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is creating multiple challenges that existing laws were never designed to address. Missouri just cannot wait and sit by while these changes occur before determining whether adequate protection measures exist for its citizens. It is my firm opinion that a Special Session would allow lawmakers to identify gaps in current statute, evaluate appropriate safeguards, and consider legislation like the Missouri Consumer Data Bill of Rights before those decisions are made.”
The formal request follows months of growing worry from Missouri families, property owners, and agricultural communities regarding who ultimately bears the cost and infrastructure burdens of big tech developments.
“The people of Missouri deserve confidence that their interests come before those of multinational corporations and outside special interests,” continued Mayhew. “Citizens deserve the assurance that their communities, resources, and personal freedoms are protected.”
Rep. Mayhew vows to continue leading this protective effort in the General Assembly to guarantee that the rights, resources, and peace of mind of Missouri citizens remain the state’s highest priority.
Representative Don Mayhew, a Republican, represents parts of Miller and Pulaski County (District 124) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to his first two-year term in November 2018.
