Recent local moratoria in counties like Benton, Cedar, and cities such as Springfield and St. Charles reflect growing resident concerns over hyperscale data centers' demands on electricity, water, and land amid AI expansion, prompting lawsuits challenging pauses and a September 16, 2026, Capitol rally by hundreds calling for statewide action. Governor Kehoe's January executive order focuses instead on coordinating energy infrastructure to support data center growth, while no statewide bill has advanced despite proposals like HB 3369. The 2027 legislative session starting in January represents the next key window for potential action, though local control and pro-development priorities continue to shape outcomes.