State rep studying tribal relations and impact of data center expansion

(OKLAHOMA) – Oklahoma House representatives are launching interim studies on topics important to their districts and constituents.

Freshman Rep. Mandy Clinton (D-District 71) secured approval for two studies, focusing on state-Tribal relations and the impact of data center expansion on Oklahoma’s water and power grid.

“As I spoke to folks across this district, I promised to be an engaged, effective representative who listens to people and works to deliver results for constituents,” Clinton said. “I was sworn in after a special election on June 18, and study proposals were due just one week later. I’m excited to hit the ground running, just like I told voters I would.”

Clinton said the state has work to do in strengthening its relationships with Oklahoma’s 38 federally recognized Tribes. Her study on improving state-Tribal relations will focus on these key areas:

-Reviewing current state policies and legal frameworks governing Tribal consultation and collaboration, including committees, liaison offices, and intergovernmental agreements

-Identifying best practices in partnerships among Tribal nations, state agencies, and municipalities, especially in child care, housing, infrastructure, and economic development

-Exploring models from other states with large Native populations that promote Tribal inclusion in state and local planning and governance

-Considering potential legislative or administrative changes to support respectful, consistent, and mutually beneficial collaboration among Tribal, state, and local governments

“With 20 years of professional experience in Indian Country and as a Cherokee Nation citizen whose Tribe helped shape my own path, I know firsthand that our Tribal Nations lead the way in delivering effective policy solutions,” added Clinton. “They have established themselves as leaders in health care, education, housing, and economic development, and all Oklahomans are better off when we leverage our shared strengths to solve these stubborn challenges for everyone.”

Clinton’s second study will explore the demands data centers place on Oklahoma’s electricity and water resources. It will also evaluate the state’s capacity for new data centers and the potential strain on infrastructure if expansion continues.

The proposal identifies Oklahoma as an attractive location for data centers due to low energy costs, available land, and tax incentives. The study will also review how large data centers in other states have affected aquifers, municipal water systems, and long-term water security.

“If Oklahoma is going to be the site of new large-scale data centers, we need to fully understand what that means for the long-term viability of our resources, especially our electric grid and water supply,” said Clinton. “My priority is to keep utility costs low for consumers, protect our water quality and quantity, avoid overloading infrastructure at the expense of residents, and ensure we remain an attractive destination for other industries that depend on those same resources.”

The interim study period concludes on November 6. Public meetings will include presentations, expert testimony, and stakeholder input.