**Local opposition fueled by surging AI-driven electricity and water demands has triggered over 138 active municipal and township moratoriums across Ohio as of mid-September 2026, alongside 23 effective bans.** Widespread resident pushback, backed by polls showing 78% support for pauses, has prompted local zoning reviews while state lawmakers advance slower measures like a data center study commission (HB 646, passed House, pending Senate) and a pause on new tax exemptions. A recent cost-benefit analysis found a construction ban could outperform the status quo economically due to ratepayer impacts. November 2026 local ballot measures in dozens of jurisdictions and a 2027 statewide initiative add near-term catalysts, though no comprehensive state moratorium has advanced.