The Data Center Divide
A policy snapshot ahead of the 2026 midterms. Mapping data center incentives, restrictions, and bans through legislation, regulations, and executive actions across all 50 states and 1,462 local jurisdictions.
Rhea County
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Slightly Pro-Data Center Policies
Rhea County has enacted a temporary pause on starting or developing new data centers while it studies their impacts and sets standards. No end date is given.
Rating from Tennessee statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for Rhea County.
Specific to Rhea County only.
current law · County measureLocal news reports that the Rhea County Commission unanimously adopted a moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency-mining facilities at its July 21, 2026 meeting.Rhea County Commission moratorium resolution on data centers and cryptocurrency-mining facilities (sponsored by Commissioner Jacob Ellis; motion by Commissioner Mark Cashman, seconded by Commissioner Nick Welch)
What this means
The measure would temporarily stop new data centers from being built, developed, or started, making projects substantially harder to pursue while the county studies impacts and sets standards (temporary moratorium). The sources give no end date, so the pause could last until the county completes that work.
Timing
The measure is reported as temporary and immediately effective upon passage. The adopted duration, termination condition, and expiration date have not been verified; no sunset date is inferred.
People behind it
- Jacob Ellis
District 7 commissioner and resolution sponsor.
- Mark Cashman
Makes the motion to approve.
- Nick Welch
Seconds the motion.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Reported immediate moratorium on construction, development, and operation of new data centers and cryptocurrency-mining facilities. The Herald-News additionally quotes coverage of establishment of data centers. Exceptions and treatment of existing operations are unverified.
Sources
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