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

The proposed legislation would allow Virginia's five commercial casinos to obtain online gaming licenses, with each casino permitted up to three iGaming skins. License fees would cost $1 million for a five-year term, with a 15% tax rate on gross gaming revenue.

The bill faces significant opposition, particularly from The Cordish Companies, which is developing Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia in Petersburg. Cordish's General Counsel Mark Stewart has consistently opposed iGaming expansion, arguing it reduces casino foot traffic and threatens jobs.

Key concerns from opponents include:

• Reduced casino visitation and revenue
• Potential job losses
• Weaker responsible gambling protections
• Limited ability to prevent underage gambling
• Easier access to problematic gambling behavior

The timing of this legislation is notable, as Virginia's casino industry is still in its early stages. Only three of the five planned casinos are currently operational:

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

Boyd Gaming and Caesars, while generally supportive of iGaming in other markets, may approach this expansion cautiously given the nascent state of their Virginia operations.

The Virginia General Assembly will begin formal consideration of the bill when it convenes on Wednesday.

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