Advocacy News – July 15, 2026
What’s happening: Gov. Whitmer unveiled the Michigan Affordable and Responsible Growth Action Plan, proposing legislation and seeking voluntary pledges focused on protecting ratepayers, safeguarding natural resources, strengthening transparency and building on Michigan’s existing safeguards as demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow.
What we’re saying: “Digital infrastructure has become essential to Michigan’s economy, and data centers help power the services, industries and innovations people rely on every day. The challenge isn’t choosing between economic opportunity and strong community protections – it’s ensuring we achieve both.”
Michigan Chamber President & CEO Jim Holcomb said many elements of the Governor’s proposal align with recommendations from the independent Public Sector Consultants (PSC) report commissioned by the Michigan Chamber Foundation and partners.
Research to results: The PSC report wasn’t commissioned to sit on a shelf. Since its release, the Chamber has been working with lawmakers, regulators, the Michigan for Responsible Data Centers coalition and other stakeholders to help turn its independent recommendations into practical public policy.
Bottom line: The Michigan Chamber is focused on keeping this important conversation moving forward so our Great Lakes State can compete for responsible digital infrastructure investment while protecting the communities and resources that make our state strong.
Go deeper: Read our full statement here. For Qs or more information, contact Dan Papineau.