Study resolution on data centers

HJ 46 is a joint resolution requesting the Montana legislature to study the impacts of data centers on the state's electric grid, economy, and water resources. It directs an interim committee to examine how large data center energy demands (like 400 megawatts by 2030, enough for 320,000 homes) might strain grid reliability, increase utility rates for other customers, and affect job growth or tax revenue. The resolution also requires analysis of potential water usage and whether data centers should be classified as a separate customer type for regulatory purposes. This procedural resolution, which died in committee in May 2025, sought to inform future policy decisions but did not create new laws.