The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a rule change that would let states decide how much public input is required for air pollution permits, potentially reducing community oversight of polluting facilities.This shift could benefit data centers reliant on fossil fuels by streamlining the permitting process for minor sources of pollution.

Under the Clean Air Act, major sources require federal and state review with extensive public participation, while minor sources face less regulation.

The proposed change would allow states to set their own standards for public engagement, creating disparities in how communities are informed about new or expanded polluting facilities.

Advocacy groups warn that this could marginalize residents, as seen in Texas where lax enforcement has led to unexpected fossil fuel infrastructure near homes.

Critics argue the rule revision aligns with the Trump administration's push to accelerate AI development by reducing regulatory hurdles for data centers.The move comes amid growing public opposition to such projects, highlighting tensions between corporate interests and environmental safeguards.