AI data centers are becoming a hot topic in many communities across the country. Every time big tech launches a new, more capable model or advanced feature, the use cases increase the need for more compute power for AI tools and cloud services.Now, a proposed change from the Environmental Protection Agency could make it harder for residents of proposed data center locations to find out about the projects before they are approved.As reported by the Associated Press on Thursday, the proposal would remove a federal requirement for states to give the public notice and an opportunity to comment before issuing certain air pollution permits.Although the change is not specific to data centers, it would apply to a category of facilities considered "minor" sources of air pollution under the Clean Air Act. These include businesses ranging from repair shops and laundromats to landfills and steel mills. It could also apply to data centers, making the proposal especially important as big tech races to secure locations to support AI growth.What is the EPA proposing?The EPA first proposed the rule in July, and it involves a part of the Clean Air Act called the New Source Review, or NSR, program. Right now, under federal regulations, minimum requirements are set to ensure the public is involved when states and local agencies handle these minor-source permits. According to the EPA's explanation of the permitting process, the public is given 30 days to submit their concerns or request a public hearing.Although the EPA wants to eliminate that, it doesn't mean every state would stop notifying residents about proposed facilities. It just wouldn't be a requirement. The concern leans more toward states that don't have strong requirements already in place of their own.Why does this matter for data centers?