Fairfax Casino Opponents Support Formation of Virginia Gaming Commission
Fairfax Casino Opponents Support Formation of Virginia Gaming Commission
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A grassroots group in Fairfax County continues to oppose a push to allow a casino in Northern Virginia.
The No Fairfax Casino Coalition is seeking a moratorium on new casinos until a state gaming commission is formed.
Opponents to allowing a casino in Virginia’s Fairfax County assert their support for a state gaming regulatory commission. This coalition, comprising local residents and officials, is vocal in its opposition to the development of a casino resort in the affluent Northern Virginia area.
A joint subcommittee in Richmond is currently contemplating the establishment of a gaming commission aimed at regulating the diverse array of gambling options that have proliferated in Virginia in recent years. The No Fairfax Casino Coalition (NFCC) firmly believes that a state gaming commission would be better positioned to oversee this thriving industry and promote transparency.
According to NFCC chair Lynne Mulston:
“The NFCC remains opposed to any legislation permitting casino development in Fairfax County. At the same time, we acknowledge the necessity for robust oversight and regulation of gaming activities throughout the commonwealth.”
Virginia’s historical stance against gambling has been challenged in recent years, with the state legalising slot-like historical horse racing machines in 2018 and establishing up to five casino licenses as of 2020. Legislation passed in 2020 also liberalised retail and online sports betting.
Opposition Dwarfs Support
All five casino licenses allocated in 2020 have been taken, with operational casinos in Portsmouth, Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Petersburg. Proponents, including some state lawmakers representing Fairfax County like Sen. David Marsden (D-Fairfax) and Del. Wren Williams (R-Stuart), argue that casinos could provide much-needed revenue to support the county’s finances, which have dwindled, particularly after many office buildings negotiated lower property tax assessments post-COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these arguments, the overwhelming sentiment in Fairfax opposes a casino. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors leads the resistance, along with backing from over two dozen homeowner associations, civic groups, and councils from various districts. Notably, over 100 past intelligence officials have also expressed concerns, stating that a casino near the CIA’s headquarters could pose national security risks.
Moratorium Sought
In tandem with their request for a gaming commission, the NFCC has urged the government to place a moratorium on any further gambling expansion, including new casino sites, until a regulatory framework is in place.
“The NFCC recommends implementing a moratorium on new gaming facilities and online platforms until the commission is fully established and operational,” said Mulston.
Recently, during a hearing of the gaming commission subcommittee, the coalition heard testimony regarding the potential introduction of legal online slots and table games to Virginia.
With recommendations due by November 30, the gaming subcommittee will advise the General Assembly on potential expansions and the proposed gaming commission’s efficacy to regulate current operations.
As the legislature prepares for its next session, pre-filing is set to commence on November 17, 2025, with meetings to finalize recommendations beginning in early 2026.
Summarily, the No Fairfax Casino Coalition stands firmly against the introduction of casinos in Fairfax County, advocating instead for the establishment of a state gaming commission to ensure proper regulation and oversight of the gambling industry in Virginia. Their stance reflects broader concerns about the potential social impacts of gambling expansions within affluent communities.
