Richard Stuart

Virginia senators Russet Perry and Richard Stuart requested a special session to address a groundwater report showing significant strain on aquifers east of I-95, risking clean water availability. The report, delayed until July 2026, highlights potential impacts from industrial withdrawals and recommends updating the 1992 Groundwater Management Act to limit excessive water use.

A new Virginia DEQ report reveals constrained groundwater east of Interstate 95, prompting calls for tighter data center regulations. A 2024 bill, pushed by Republican State Sen. Richard Stuart, mandated the study.

Virginia released a study on groundwater depletion in its eastern region, linking declines to population growth and industrial use, including data centers. The report urges stricter water regulations and greater regulatory authority over industrial water withdrawals, though it does not directly blame data centers for aquifer concerns.

Virginia released a study on groundwater depletion in its eastern region, linking declines to population growth and data center water use. The report urges stricter regulations on water withdrawals, including enhanced oversight of industrial permits and alternative water sources, as groundwater availability is projected to decrease.

Virginia's study on groundwater and data centers found declining aquifer levels due to population and industrial use, urging stricter regulations. The report, withheld for six months, highlights concerns about data centers' water consumption and calls for increased regulatory authority over water withdrawals.

Virginia's study on groundwater and data centers, delayed for six months, found declining aquifer levels due to population growth and industrial use, urging stricter water regulations. The report, released by Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger's office, highlights concerns about data centers' water consumption and calls for enhanced regulatory authority over water withdrawals.