US Senator Bernie Sanders is set to introduce a bill that would halt new data center construction until laws are enacted to safeguard against the risks of artificial intelligence. The bill, which has a similar counterpart in the House, aims to address concerns over the environmental impact and potential harms from AI.

The moratorium will apply only to new or existing data centers used specifically for AI, defined as having an energy load above 20 megawatts. Sanders argues that a pause is necessary to ensure AI benefits working families rather than just a select few billionaires.

Opposition to data centers has surged in recent years due to fears of increased electricity bills and environmental damage. Recent polling suggests nearly 40% of Americans view data centers negatively, citing their impact on the environment and local communities.

The bill also targets tech companies, requiring them to share AI-generated wealth with US citizens and prohibiting the export of computing hardware to countries without similar safeguards. It echoes calls from environmental groups like Food and Water Watch, which have been instrumental in shaping the legislation.

While the bill faces significant hurdles, reflecting the broader political climate's divided stance on AI, it marks a notable shift towards addressing the multifaceted impacts of data centers and AI technology.