THE ISSUES
Data Centers and AI
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live, work, and do business. Whether we like it or not, the AI genie is out of the bottle. The question is no longer whether AI will become part of our future. The question is whether we will shape that future responsibly.
Colorado has an opportunity to become a national leader in developing thoughtful guardrails that encourage innovation while protecting everyday citizens. AI should improve people's lives, not compromise their privacy, replace human judgment where it matters most, or leave consumers without recourse when technology causes harm. As technology evolves, our laws should ensure transparency, protect personal data, guard against discrimination, and hold companies accountable when AI systems affect important decisions involving employment, healthcare, housing, education, or financial services.
That same balanced approach should guide how we think about the rapid growth of large scale data centers.
Projects like the proposed Project Taurus development in northern Colorado Springs have raised important questions about energy demand, water consumption, land use, noise, traffic, and long term impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. While data centers can bring investment and support emerging technologies, communities deserve a clear understanding of both the benefits and the costs before projects of this scale move forward.
I believe a pause is more than a reasonable next step when approving large scale AI data centers, like Project Taurus, until we have a better understanding of their environmental impacts, infrastructure demands, and long term effects on local communities. A pause is not the same as opposition. It is simply good governance. Taking the time to gather data, hear from experts, and establish clear statewide standards will lead to more stable community growth than rushing into projects we may later regret.
Equally important, local residents deserve a meaningful voice in the process. When neighborhoods consistently raise concerns about a major development, elected officials should listen. Community engagement should never be treated as a box to check after decisions have already been made. Growth is most successful when it reflects the priorities of the people who will live with its impacts every day.
As your State Representative, I will advocate for statewide standards that require transparency, environmental review, and responsible planning for large scale data center projects. I will also support legislation that protects consumers from the misuse of artificial intelligence while encouraging innovation that benefits Colorado's economy. We do not have to choose between embracing new technology and protecting our communities. With thoughtful leadership, we can do both.
Technology should serve people, not the other way around. By taking a measured, commonsense approach to AI and data center development, Colorado can continue to innovate while protecting our natural resources, our neighborhoods, and the rights of the people who call this state home.
