HB4009 would require the Arizona State Land Department to periodically develop and update maps identifying state trust land parcels that the commissioner considers the highest and best locations for two types of development: computer data centers and data center facilities, and thermal and nonthermal electric generating units, including small modular reactors. The maps must be updated at least every ten years, or sooner if the commissioner deems necessary, and the department must consult with relevant industry stakeholders while preparing them.
The bill also directs the commissioner to take both maps into account when preparing conceptual land use plans under existing state land law. In addition, the department must submit copies of the maps to legislative and executive leaders and post them publicly on its website. A separate implementation section requires the commissioner to complete the maps within two years of the act’s effective date, but clarifies that the department may continue processing land disposition applications and permits for data centers and electric generating units before the maps are adopted.
Impact
HB4009 would add a new section to Title 37 governing the State Land Department’s planning responsibilities and would create a formal mapping requirement for state lands targeted for data center and power-generation development. It would affect how the commissioner evaluates conceptual land use plans under section 37-331.03 and would increase public disclosure by requiring submission and online posting of the maps. The bill does not itself approve any specific project or halt existing permitting and land disposition processes, but it would establish a planning framework that could influence future state land decisions involving data centers, utility infrastructure, and small modular reactors.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have had mixed but meaningful support in the House, advancing through committee and receiving a narrow 29-25 third-reading vote before ultimately failing. The committee votes suggest some bipartisan or cross-issue interest in the concept, especially given the 6-4 vote in the House Natural Resources, Energy & Water Committee and unanimous House Rules Committee action. Overall, the discussion history available here suggests the bill was viewed as a planning and economic-development measure, but not one with broad enough consensus to secure final passage.
Contention
The main point of contention appears to be whether the state should formally steer state land planning toward data centers and electric generation projects, including small modular reactors, through mandated maps and industry consultation. Supporters likely saw the bill as a way to improve long-term land-use planning, transparency, and site readiness for energy and technology infrastructure. Opponents likely objected to the state’s involvement in prioritizing specific industries, the inclusion of nuclear-related generation, or the possibility that the maps could influence future land use decisions without guaranteeing broader public benefits. The close third-reading vote indicates the bill was politically divisive even after clearing committee stages.
Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established