MGM Resorts International spent $755,000 in 2024 lobbying against two major gaming expansion initiatives in Virginia: a proposed casino in Northern Virginia and the legalization of skill games throughout the commonwealth.

The casino operator primarily focused on opposing a potential casino in Tysons, as proposed by state Sen. David Marsden (D-Fairfax). MGM allocated nearly $500,000 to a public relations firm and $222,000 to Richmond-based lobbyists to fight the expansion.

The opposition included the No Tysons Casino Coalition and received support from various groups, including:

• Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
• Local homeowners associations
• Municipal governments
• Over 100 former CIA and intelligence community officials

MGM also opposed Senate Bill 212, which would have legalized skill games in businesses with Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority licenses. Governor Glenn Youngkin (R) ultimately vetoed the bill after the General Assembly rejected his proposed modifications, including:

• 35-mile buffer zones from casinos, racetracks, and horse racing facilities
• Half-mile restriction from churches and daycares

MGM's aggressive lobbying efforts aim to protect its MGM National Harbor casino in Maryland, which stands as one of its most valuable properties:

• Second-largest gaming floor outside China (159,000 square feet)
• 2,500 slots and 160 live dealer tables
• BetMGM Sportsbook
• 308-room hotel
• Generated $825 million in gaming revenue in 2023
• Consistently ranks among top-earning U.S. casinos outside Las Vegas

The property's 2023 revenue made it the second-highest-grossing casino outside Las Vegas, trailing only Resorts World New York City's $900 million.

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