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Jessica Haire for State Senate
Data centers strengthen the state's technology expertise and support economic growth in the state's digital economy; however, the detrimental impact on the electrical grid and water supply cannot be ignored, particularly as communities are facing astronomical electric bills, and aquifer depletion concerns mount. Thoughtful planning, requirements for independent energy supplies, and appropriate zoning are necessary before additional data centers are built.
Crippling energy bills have caused many Marylanders to struggle financially. Record demand from data centers coupled with actions by the State Legislature for (1) new fees, which pass on the cost of electrical infrastructure upgrades to residents; and (2) requirements that force importing roughly 40% of Maryland's energy from outside the state are responsible. Expediting infrastructure for renewable energy in Maryland and requiring self-production of energy by data centers are critical.
Public transportation projects must be considered on a case-by-case basis; no single solution makes sense for the entire state given the differences in population density and community needs. Moreover, as we've seen with past projects, costs and timeframes often overrun substantially. Our first focus ought to be on optimizing current routes and modernizing outdated infrastructure.
We must lessen the tax burden on our residents who are moving out of state due to rising taxes/fees. Funding priorities include:
(1) Restoring funding for Developmental Disabilities, which was cut in this year's budget.
(2) Public safety - investing in police, fire, safe communities.
(3) Infrastructure - upgrades and investment in failing roadways, sanitary sewer systems, storm water systems, and energy sources as well as improving storm resiliency by burying power lines in communities.
Our country's story is told through immigration and opportunity, and our community has many immigrants who have started thriving businesses that enrich our state and support our local economy. I support programs that help navigate citizenship paperwork, business growth, job coaching, mentorship etc.
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I’m cautious about expanding data centers. They are critical to the information economy. Global demand is projected to more than double by 2030. I've supported efforts in the Senate to study their impacts and require operators to pay for grid upgrades, protect ratepayers from higher bills, and address water use, land use, and environmental safeguards before additional facilities are approved.
Key factors driving rising utility costs include limited in-state energy generation, high transmission costs, and rising PJM prices. In response, we passed SB1 (Energy Resource Adequacy & Planning Act) and SB474 (Next Generation Energy Act) to strengthen planning for new generation, improve oversight, and protect ratepayers. We need to continue improving regional market rules, expanding reliable renewable energy supply, and ensuring large energy users cover their fair share.
Yes. Improving public transportation strengthens economic mobility, reduces congestion, and lowers emissions. About 30% of Maryland workers live in households with one or no vehicles, making reliable transit essential for access to jobs, school, and healthcare. Strategic investments in transit, bus reliability, and regional connections can expand opportunity while supporting economic growth across the state.
My top priority is protecting healthcare and essential benefits for working families, especially as federal cuts threaten programs Marylanders rely on. Second, I'll reduce costs and administrative burdens on families and small businesses, building on my legislation HB268, which eliminated personal property taxes for 14,000 small businesses. Third, I'll prioritize affordability for essentials like housing, childcare, and groceries by supporting smart state spending that expands access.
I support policies that protect due process, strengthen worker protections, and ensure immigrants who live and work in Maryland can contribute safely to our economy and communities.
