Virginia is poised to become the next state to consider online casino gambling legislation through Senate Bill 827, prefiled by state Sen. Mamie Locke (D-Portsmouth).

The proposed legislation would allow the state's five commercial casinos to offer online gaming with up to three unique online casino brands each. Licenses would cost $1 million for a five-year term, with a 15% tax rate on gross gaming revenue.

Key aspects of the bill:

• Eligible casinos: Rivers Casino Portsmouth, Hard Rock Bristol, Caesars Virginia (Danville), Boyd Gaming (Norfolk), and Live! Casino & Hotel (Petersburg)
• Three iGaming skins per casino permitted
• $1 million license fee per five years
• 15% tax rate on gross revenue

Significant opposition is expected, particularly from The Cordish Companies, which operates the Live! Casino & Hotel in Petersburg. Their General Counsel Mark Stewart has consistently opposed iGaming expansion, citing concerns about:

• Reduced foot traffic to physical casinos
• Decreased revenue and reinvestment
• Limited responsible gaming protections compared to brick-and-mortar facilities
• Potential job losses

MGM Resorts, though not directly invested in Virginia, may also oppose the legislation. The company spent approximately $755,000 on political activities in Virginia during 2024, primarily opposing gaming expansion efforts.

The timing of this legislation is notable as Virginia's casino industry is still in its early stages, with only three of the five permanent resorts currently operational:

• Rivers Portsmouth (opened January 2023)
• Hard Rock Bristol (opened November 2024)
• Caesars Virginia (opened December 2024)

Related Articles

Previous Articles