New Mexico Lawmakers Urge Action on Controversial $165B Data Center
URGENT UPDATE: Concern is escalating among New Mexico lawmakers over the proposed **$165 billion** AI data center, known as **Project Jupiter**, which is set to impact the communities of southern **Doña Ana County**. At a recent meeting of the **Water and Natural Resources Committee** in **Artesia**, officials expressed deep worries about the environmental effects and a troubling lack of transparency surrounding the development.
The proposed project, now facing **two lawsuits**, has drawn significant criticism from local residents who fear for their water quality and community well-being. “This issue is really important to me, and we can talk about the water piece, the energy piece, but I think what’s been really overwhelming to me is just the lack of community involvement in this process,” stated state Rep. **Angelica Rubio** (D-Las Cruces). Her remarks reflect a growing sentiment of distrust among residents, especially as they contend with **arsenic-laced drinking water** from the **Camino Real Regional Utility Authority**, which has faced lawsuits over failed arsenic tests.
Rubio emphasized the “insane” nature of approving millions in tax credits for corporations while local residents struggle with basic necessities. “I just wish that our communities had this kind of sense of urgency when it came to their matters, the way that we put forth corporations like this one,” she said.
Rep. **Micaela Lara Cadena** (D-Mesilla) joined in the criticism, claiming lawmakers were “misled” by **Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham**’s administration earlier this year regarding legislative changes that could affect energy regulations. She pointed to an amendment to **House Bill 93**, signed into law on **April 8**, which has raised concerns of creating a loophole within the **Energy Transition Act**.
Sen. **Candy Spence Ezzell** (R-Roswell) added her voice to the opposition, particularly regarding potential impacts on local farmers. “What these companies are doing is they’re overinflating the cost of this land in southeastern New Mexico,” she warned, highlighting the risks for young ranchers and farmers who could be priced out of their own land.
The **Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners** previously approved **$165 billion** in industrial revenue bonds to support Project Jupiter, a decision met with public outcry as hundreds of residents attended the meeting to voice their concerns.
As the situation develops, the future of Project Jupiter remains uncertain, with lawmakers urging a reassessment of the project’s implications for local communities. The pressing question now is how state officials will respond to the growing backlash and whether they will ensure adequate community involvement moving forward.
Authorities are expected to address these concerns in upcoming sessions, making it critical for residents to stay informed about the potential impacts of this massive development. This is a developing story, and further updates will follow as lawmakers continue to push for transparency and accountability.
