Rep. Suhas Subramanyam introduced legislation on September 9, 2026 that tasks the U.S. Department of Homeland Security with locating data centers in Virginia considered vulnerable and ensuring the electrical lines that serve them receive protection. The measure was presented as a response to the view that data‑center facilities could be exploited in attacks that threaten national security.
The proposed bill directs Homeland Security to conduct a systematic assessment of data‑center sites across the state, identify those with heightened risk, and coordinate with utility providers to safeguard the power infrastructure linked to the identified locations. The legislation outlines that the department should develop a plan for physical security enhancements, monitoring, and rapid response capabilities focused on the electrical supply chain.
Lawmakers cited the growing reliance on large‑scale data processing and storage as a factor that elevates these sites to potential strategic targets. By focusing on the power lines that deliver electricity to the centers, the bill aims to mitigate a point of vulnerability that could be used to disrupt operations or cause broader service outages.
The initiative arrives amid broader discussions about protecting critical digital infrastructure from both physical and cyber threats. Officials have highlighted that data centers, while essential for commerce and government functions, present a concentration of hardware and information that could be attractive to hostile actors. The bill seeks to address these concerns through a coordinated federal‑state effort.
If passed, the legislation would move to the appropriate committee for further review before any implementation actions are taken. The Department of Homeland Security would then be responsible for issuing guidance to utility companies and data‑center operators regarding the protective measures outlined in the bill.