Local government: other; requirements for a moratorium imposed by a local unit of government on large-scale data centers or cryptocurrency mining facilities; provide for. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5881'26

Michigan House Bill 5882, introduced on April 23, 2026, aims to regulate how local governments can impose moratoriums on large-scale data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities. The bill proposes creating a new act that sets specific requirements for these moratoriums, ensuring that local units of government follow a standardized process when deciding to pause or restrict the development of such facilities. This includes adopting certain zoning ordinance amendments and regulating related activities. The bill is tied to HB 5881, which seeks to amend the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act to align with the provisions of HB 5882.

Supporters of HB 5882 argue that the bill provides a clear framework for local governments to manage the growth of large-scale data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities. By establishing standardized requirements for imposing moratoriums, the legislation aims to balance economic development with community interests, ensuring that such facilities are developed responsibly and in accordance with local zoning laws.

Critics of HB 5882 express concerns that the bill may limit the autonomy of local governments by imposing state-mandated procedures for enacting moratoriums. They argue that this could hinder the ability of communities to respond swiftly to the unique challenges posed by large-scale data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations, potentially leading to delays in addressing environmental, infrastructural, or social issues associated with these facilities.