Virginia Committee Considering Formation of Gaming Commission Discusses iGaming

Virginia lawmakers are actively looking into the potential establishment of a gaming commission to regulate the evolving landscape of gambling within the state. In recent years, legal gambling has grown significantly with the introduction of casinos, sports betting, and historical horse racing (HHR) machines.

Key Points of Discussion

• Formation of a Gaming Commission: The committee is considering the benefits of creating a dedicated body for gaming regulation.
• Expanded Gambling Options: Virginia has seen a surge in legal gambling, pushing the need for effective oversight.
• iGaming Focus: Recent discussions highlighted the importance of regulating online casinos and the potential threats posed by unregulated offshore gambling.

Overview of Virginia’s Gambling Landscape

The Virginia General Assembly formed a special joint subcommittee in 2023 with the primary goal of assessing the feasibility of a dedicated gaming commission. Currently, the Virginia Lottery Board is responsible for oversight; however, some legislators argue that it lacks the necessary resources to effectively manage the rapidly growing industry.

Virginia is comparatively new to the gambling scene. Until as recently as 2018, it maintained strict limits on gambling activities. It first legalized HHRs at horse racetracks, which then led to the introduction of casino licenses four years later through significant legislative changes. Now, online sportsbook licenses could soon follow, building on the existing wagering options.

The Need for a Gaming Commission

As gambling continues to gain traction, some legislators, including Del. Marcus Simon of Falls Church, argue that a regulated environment is necessary to combat illegal gambling and protect players. He advocates for legalizing online casinos to displace unregulated offshore platforms that cater to Virginia’s residents.

“We’re not creating a new category here with iGaming — that ability already exists,” Simon remarked, emphasizing the urgency to bring such gambling under official regulation.

Opinions from Experts

Former director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, David Rebuck, shared insights on the growth of New Jersey’s iGaming market, noting that it has complemented existing casinos rather than detracting from them. Discussions surrounding the potential consequences of legalizing online casinos have drawn varied opinions from gambling experts.

Keith Whyte, a former executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, highlighted the necessity of incorporating responsible gaming tools into any iGaming regulatory framework to protect players. Conversely, some, like consultant Brianne Doura-Schawohl, express concerns about the dangers posed by internet gambling, equating it to illicit drug markets.

“Just because it’s happening doesn’t mean the state should legalize it,” Doura-Schawohl cautioned.

Next Steps for the Subcommittee

The subcommittee is expected to provide recommendations to the General Assembly by November 30, 2025. These recommendations will determine whether Virginia should move forward with a gaming commission and explore additional gambling options. Key stakeholders in the Virginia gaming scene currently include major operators like Hard Rock, Rush Street, Caesars, Cordish, and Boyd.

Conclusion

As Virginia navigates the complexities of gambling regulation, the discussions surrounding the formation of a gaming commission remain crucial. With the growth in legal gambling options, lawmakers and stakeholders are being called upon to establish a framework that ensures fair practices and protects the interests of players across the state.