Tennessee Lawmaker Disputes Health Dept. Air Pollution Claims, Calls for Data Center Moratorium
In Memphis, State Rep. Justin J. Pearson is disputing claims made by the Health Department regarding air pollution associated with SpaceXAI. Pearson held a press conference at City Hall to advocate for a one-year moratorium on new data centers.
Memphis, TN, October 6, 2026 —
MEMPHIS, TN – State Representative Justin J. Pearson is publicly challenging assertions made by the Health Department concerning air pollution linked to SpaceXAI. Pearson announced his position during a press conference held at City Hall in Memphis.
At the press conference, Pearson advocated for a temporary halt on the establishment of new data centers. Specifically, he is calling for a one-year moratorium on such developments.
The dispute centers on claims by the Health Department regarding air pollution. The specific nature of these claims and the associated pollution, as well as the exact nature of the dispute, were not detailed in the provided information. State Rep. Pearson’s call for a moratorium on new data centers indicates significant concerns regarding the environmental impact of these facilities.
Further details regarding the Health Department’s claims, the specific air pollution concerns, and the company SpaceXAI’s involvement were not immediately available. The duration of the proposed moratorium is stated as one year. The press conference took place at Memphis City Hall, a municipal building in the city of Memphis.
Story summarized from the original created by nmclane@dailymemphian.com (Noah McLane) on dailymemphian.com, see more information here.
