A new bill introduced in the Virginia Senate could mark a shift in the state’s gaming industry by authorising online casino operations, and it’s ready to make its first appearance of the new year.
Senate Bill 827, sponsored by Senator Locke, aims to expand Virginia’s gambling framework by allowing its existing licensed casino operators to offer online gaming.
The proposed legislation was prefiled on New Year’s Eve and could be reviewed by the Committee on General Laws and Technology as soon as 8 January.
Under the bill, iGaming licenses would be restricted to Virginia’s four currently licensed casino operators: Caesars Virginia, Golden Eagle Corp., Hard Rock Bristol, and Rivers Casino Portsmouth.
These operators, already experienced in managing physical casinos, would be authorized to provide iGaming platforms to their patrons.
This limitation ensures that the state’s iGaming ecosystem remains within the bounds of operators already vetted by Virginia’s regulatory bodies.
The legislation defines internet gaming as games of chance, including poker, blackjack, roulette, and slot-style games, offered through online platforms.
Operators must apply for a specific iGaming license at an initial cost of $1 million, with licenses valid for five years.
Virginia’s potential move into iGaming reflects a growing trend across the U.S. Currently, seven states— Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and West Virginia—have legalized online casinos.
These states have demonstrated the revenue potential of regulated online casinos, which combine convenience for players with stringent regulatory oversight.
The legislative push in Virginia follows national momentum in exploring iGaming. In addition to Virginia, Louisiana and Maryland are reportedly considering similar legislation in 2025.
The expansion of iGaming would enable these states to tap into a lucrative and growing sector while offering regulated, safe platforms for gaming enthusiasts.
Responsible gambling at the heart of the bill
Senate Bill 827 also incorporates measures to address consumer protection and problem gambling. The legislation mandates that operators verify users’ ages to ensure only individuals 21 and older participate.
It also requires geolocation technologies to confirm that bets are placed within Virginia or authorized jurisdictions.
In terms of revenue, the bill proposes a 15% tax on adjusted gross internet gaming revenue, with 2.5% allocated to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund.
The remaining funds would bolster Virginia’s general fund, offering a new revenue stream for public programs and services.
Should the bill be approved, Virginia wants to move quickly. The Virginia Lottery Board is tasked with creating regulations to govern iGaming and has a deadline of September 30, 2025, to complete this task.
License applications are set to open on July 1, 2025, offering existing casino operators sufficient time to prepare their submissions.
By limiting iGaming licenses to the state’s current casino operators, Virginia mitigates risks while leveraging their operational expertise to establish a robust online gaming infrastructure.
If passed, this legislation would solidify Virginia’s position as a progressive state in gambling reform.