Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller called on Gov. Greg Abbott to immediately convene a special session of the Texas Legislature, warning that the continued expansion of large-scale data centers could threaten the state’s agriculture industry, rural communities, water resources, and electric grid if lawmakers wait until the regular session in January.
Miller said Abbott’s recent acknowledgment of concerns surrounding rapid data center growth was a positive step, but argued that action is needed before more projects move forward.
“Governor Abbott says he now recognizes the risks posed by unchecked data center expansion, and I’m willing to take him at his word,” Miller said. “But words alone won’t protect Texas. If he’s serious, he should call a Special Session now.”
The commissioner’s request comes as state officials and communities continue to debate the impact of major data center developments across Texas. Miller warned that a new wave of projects could soon receive approval through ERCOT’s process, potentially limiting the Legislature’s ability to establish additional safeguards later.
According to Miller, ERCOT could begin approving the next major group of data center projects, known as “Batch Zero,” as early as next spring. He argued that by the time lawmakers return for the regular legislative session in January, some projects could already be approved, under construction, or protected under existing regulations.
“The clock is ticking,” Miller said. “Every day we wait, more projects move closer to becoming permanent.”
Miller said delaying action could reduce lawmakers’ ability to address concerns about the impact of large-scale data centers on rural communities and natural resources. He also argued that waiting could allow Democrats to take the lead on an issue he believes should be addressed through Republican leadership.
The agriculture commissioner also questioned whether Abbott’s recent comments signaling concerns about data center growth would lead to meaningful action.
“Is Governor Abbott genuinely committed to slowing this unchecked expansion, or is he sending a signal to data center developers, their investors, and campaign contributors that they still have a window to accelerate projects so they can be grandfathered in before the Legislature has an opportunity to act?” Miller asked.
Miller emphasized that his concerns are not about opposing technology or economic growth, but about balancing development with protecting Texas’ existing industries and resources.
“This isn’t about being anti-technology. It’s about being pro-Texas,” Miller said. “We can grow our economy without sacrificing productive farmland, depleting our water supplies, overloading our electric grid, or threatening the future of rural Texas.”
He said farmers and ranchers already face challenges and should not have to compete with major corporations for access to water and electricity.
Miller concluded by urging Abbott to take immediate action by calling a special session, warning that waiting until January could leave lawmakers with limited options to address projects that have already been approved.
“Governor Abbott now has an opportunity to prove his words with action,” Miller said. “Call the Special Session.”
