“Where You Want to Put Your Data Center Is Not a Trade Secret.” Oklahoma’s NDA Debate, Explained.

In Oklahoma, the use of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) by communities negotiating data center projects has sparked a debate on government transparency. Critics argue that secrecy is inappropriate when taxpayer money and public infrastructure may be involved. Despite the controversy, a bill to prohibit officials from signing NDAs in their official capacity failed to receive a hearing. This situation highlights the broader issue of transparency in public projects and the potential conflicts that arise when secrecy is employed in local government negotiations.