White House Unveils Sweeping AI Action Plan

The White House has unveiled a comprehensive action plan to accelerate artificial intelligence development, outlining 90 policy actions aimed at cutting regulations, constructing data centers, and building a skilled workforce. President Donald Trump emphasized the urgency of ensuring U.S. leadership in AI to counter China’s growing influence in the field.
The plan calls for federal agencies to streamline permitting processes for data centers, including new exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act for activities that “normally do not have a significant effect on the environment.” It also directs agencies with significant land holdings to identify sites for data centers and power plants.
The administration is urging the Department of Energy to support training programs and expedite environmental reviews, while the Office of Management and Budget is tasked with identifying and repealing regulations that hinder AI development. The plan highlights the need for advanced grid management and power line upgrades to meet surging electricity demand from data centers.
Critics, however, argue that the plan prioritizes rapid AI deployment over public safety and environmental protections, calling it a “fossil fuel subsidy in disguise.” They warn that cuts to renewable energy incentives could worsen air pollution and harm job growth in the clean energy sector.
Meanwhile, large technology companies are investing heavily in data center projects, with Oracle and OpenAI announcing a 4.5-gigawatt capacity deal as part of Trump’s $500 billion Stargate initiative. The plan’s implementation, however, faces challenges, including delays in project timelines and concerns over its long-term environmental impact.

Published: 7/23/2025