**Strong local opposition to hyperscale data centers, driven by concerns over energy grid strain, water use, and land impacts from AI infrastructure growth, has produced multiple county and city pauses but no statewide moratorium as of early October 2026.** Missouri’s 2026 legislative session ended without passing data center bills, though a September 16 Capitol rally drew hundreds demanding guardrails on utility costs, tax incentives, and transparency. Local actions include Jackson County’s 180-day pause, St. Charles restrictions, Springfield’s 120-day administrative delay (expiring mid-November), and others in Columbia and Benton County, where developers have filed lawsuits challenging enforcement. Governor Kehoe’s January executive order prompted a state energy review and infrastructure report due November 30, while lawmakers including Reps. Wellenkamp and Byrnes signal plans for 2027 session legislation. The November 2026 elections and ongoing local litigation remain key near-term variables.