The House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act on Wednesday, sending a bipartisan message that data centers must shoulder the costs of their massive electricity demands rather than passing them to consumers.

The legislation cleared the chamber 417-3 under suspension of the rules, a fast-track procedure requiring two-thirds support. It now moves to the Senate. Sponsored by Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Colo., and Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Fla., the bill amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act to direct state utility regulators to consider standards that assign large-load customers, including data centers using 100 megawatts or more, the full cost of new generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure.

The measure also requires financial assurances from companies to protect communities if projects are canceled. It does not mandate specific rules but requires states to hold proceedings on the issue within two years.

Lawmakers acted amid growing public backlash against the data center boom fueled by artificial intelligence expansion. Polls show limited local support for new facilities, and rising electricity rates have become a flashpoint ahead of the November midterms. The bill represents one of the first congressional efforts to address who pays for the infrastructure needed to power AI-related growth.

Republicans highlighted the protection it offers to American families and local ratepayers. Democrats joined in support, reflecting broad agreement that tech companies should not externalize costs. The three opposing votes came from progressive Democrats.

House leaders moved the bill in one of the final sessions before members depart for the campaign trail. Senate consideration remains uncertain before the elections, though some leaders have signaled possible action.

The legislation stops short of restricting data center development or imposing federal mandates, focusing instead on cost allocation at the state level. Supporters view it as an initial step toward greater accountability for high-energy users.