Virginia Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell (D-Fairfax) has introduced Senate Bill 982, proposing a casino development near Tysons in Northern Virginia. The bill seeks to establish a casino within a quarter-mile of the Spring Hill Metro station, subject to voter approval through a countywide referendum.

Real estate developer Comstock Companies has unveiled an ambitious $6 billion mixed-use development plan spanning 35 acres, including:

• A casino (occupying 5% of the facility)
• A 600-room five-star luxury hotel
• A 6,000-seat performing arts theatre
• Convention center
• Residential apartments
• Retail shopping
• Restaurants and bars
• Public greenspace
• Immersive theater

The proposal faces significant opposition from:

• Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
• Local homeowners associations
• Municipal governments
• Former federal employees
• MGM Resorts (operating MGM National Harbor nearby)

Board of Supervisors Chair Jeff McKay argues that Tysons is already growing and doesn't need a casino. The Board maintains that the development could create uncertainty and challenge efforts to attract major employers to the area.

Currently, Virginia allows casinos only in Portsmouth, Bristol, Norfolk, Danville, and Petersburg. The bill has been directed to the Senate Committee on General Laws and Technology for initial consideration.

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