Senate blocks fast-track data-center ratepayer bill amid push for stricter energy rules

A Republican bid to fast-track the Ratepayer Protection Act in the Senate failed after Sen. Martin Heinrich objected, with Democrats arguing the measure doesn’t go far enough and offering a tougher GRID Savings Act alternative. The House had approved the bill 417-3, and leaders indicated a consent agreement would be needed in the Senate, potentially followed by counteroffers from Democrats. The digest also notes privacy and surveillance scrutiny around Flock Safety’s license-plate cameras and ongoing bipartisan AI policy discussions, underscoring ongoing debates over energy costs, technology regulation, and civil liberties ahead of the midterms.