State policy context: advocates cite Responsible Data Center Act and differing megawatt thresholds

Advocates framed the local moratorium within a broader state push for regulation. Chris Murawski of the Clean Air Coalition said a statewide moratorium and related legislation — the "Responsible Data Center Act" — were awaiting Gov. Hochul's signature, and he urged the committee to act locally while the state debate proceeds.

Several speakers contrasted the city's proposed 20‑megawatt threshold to a higher figure they associated with the governor's initiative. "I think is it 20 milligrain 20 watts? Somebody correct me. Is it 20? Oh, no. It's 50. I'm sorry. Fifties," one resident said while referencing the differing thresholds. Committee members said a local standard would allow Buffalo to be more protective of water, noise and residential adjacency than a broader state rule might be.