Prop 45 in California could be hiding a loophole for data centers

Proposition 45 in California, pitched as a fast-track for essential infrastructure, may create a loophole for data center developers to avoid public scrutiny, according to environmental advocates. The measure would shorten environmental assessment timelines and limit public challenge in court. Proponents claim it will help alleviate housing shortages and meet renewable energy demand, but critics argue data centers could exploit the definition of 'essential projects' to bypass scrutiny. Environmental groups and lawyers warn that communities would be cut out of the conversation. CEQA standards would be loosened, and environmental reviews would be streamlined, with a 365-day deadline for impact reports and a 45-day public comment period. Challenges to projects would need to be settled within 270 days. Critics say this would allow data center developers to exploit the system, while proponents argue it would speed up development of essential projects.