Hawkins Co. Bans Data Centers and Crypto Mines Amid Federal Lawsuit
The Hawkins County Commission has passed a resolution banning data centers and cryptocurrency mines in the county. This decision comes after similar measures were taken in the past, with Monday's vote requiring two-thirds of commissioners present to pass.
The ban is currently the subject of a federal lawsuit filed by The Beacon Center of Tennessee on behalf of ExoticRidge Crypto Company LLC, which claims that the county's actions are 'unconstitutional, arbitrary and were enacted in violation of Tennessee state law.'
If the county loses the suit and a judge rules in favor of ExoticRidge, Monday's resolution would be invalidated.