This FAQ is designed to help state legislators understand the basic facts and policy considerations surrounding artificial intelligence infrastructure and water use. As AI systems expand, large data centers are being built across the country. In some communities, questions have arisen about how these facilities use water and how that demand fits within existing water systems and planning frameworks.

State lawmakers oversee water rights systems, public utilities, and land-use policy within their jurisdictions. Clear, accessible information about data centers, cooling technologies, water demand, and growth trends is therefore essential for informed oversight.

This document explains how data centers operate, why AI increases computing intensity, and how cooling systems affect water demand. It reviews industry growth and mitigation technologies, summarizes recent state-level disputes, and concludes with governance considerations for water planning and infrastructure oversight.

The FAQ is organized into five sections with thematically related questions. Sources for each section are provided at the end of the document.

Read the full FAQ here.

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