Midwest Cities Tackle AI Regulation Amid Resource Concerns

Midwest cities are stepping up to manage the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly concerning local resource sustainability. In West Des Moines, Iowa, Microsoft data centers have been reported to consume approximately 6% of the city’s monthly water supply. In response, the West Des Moines Water Works has formalized a memorandum with Microsoft to regulate water usage, mandating that any future extension of their data centers will necessitate a reduction in peak water consumption. Microsoft has pledged to adopt zero-water cooling systems for new data centers by 2024, which will facilitate the construction of additional facilities in the area.

This development reflects the broader landscape where cities are independently addressing the challenges posed by AI, particularly as state and federal regulations lag significantly. With no overarching regulations governing the resource utilization or technology transparency of AI, Midwest states have witnessed a surge in investments from tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and Meta, spurred by favorable operational costs and tax incentives.

Efforts to enhance regulatory frameworks vary across the region. States like California lead with a plethora of AI laws, while Midwest states struggle, with Iowa having passed just four relevant laws since 2016. Notably, Wichita, Kansas, has initiated a public registry for AI tools employed in local government, and St. Louis is focusing on AI's role in law enforcement, highlighting the need for accountability and public trust. Experts are now calling for a national framework to govern AI technologies effectively and address their social impacts.