Virginia Lawmakers Debate Legalization of iGaming
Virginia lawmakers have resumed discussion on whether or not online casinos should be legalized in the state, after its previous online gambling bill stalled in the legislature in January 2025. Policymakers heard arguments from both proponents and opponents of the measure.
At a meeting of the Joint Subcommittee to Study the Feasibility of Establishing the Virginia Gaming Commission, lawmakers heard from experts about the potential benefits and dangers of internet gambling. The conversation focused on how Virginia might build a fair, accountable system while cracking down on the thriving offshore market.
“Based on my experience, there’s proof in concept to taking a multi-pronged approach to cracking down on the illegal market, with legalization being a critical component to every approach,” said Dave Rebuck, former director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Supporters of legalization highlight convenience and revenue potential. Delegate Marcus Simon predicted that Virginia could potentially generate $5.3 billion in taxable revenue within the first five years of legalization.
However, critics urged lawmakers to consider the social costs, such as suicide rates, substance abuse, and drops in credit scores.
Previous attempts to pass real money online casino legislation in Virginia stalled earlier this year. The subcommittee will meet twice more before the General Assembly reconvenes in January. Lawmakers will first review the impact of existing casinos, then tackle broader gaming issues, from skill games to charitable gaming, ahead of the 2026 session.
Other iGaming discussions
Virginia isn't the only state debating the implementation of iGaming. Ohio lawmakers have begun hearing testimony in support of House Bill 298, which would allow Ohio residents to play casino games online.
While lawmakers are divided on whether internet gambling will strengthen or strain Ohio’s economy, the first hearing on House Bill 298 showed clear momentum from industry advocates.
Supporters pointed to new revenue streams and argued that legalization would curb illegal play, which is already thriving in the state. Supporters, including FanDuel’s Cesar Fernandez, who projected that “iGaming can contribute more than $600 million in annual tax revenue.”
Scott Ward of the Sports Betting Alliance argued that most Ohioans betting online are already doing so illegally, estimating “$5 billion being bet currently in the state of Ohio today.”
However, critics warned of risks to casinos and communities. “Online supports no employment,” said Mark Stewart of the National Association Against IGaming, questioning tax breaks for operators without brick-and-mortar investments.
Other critics discussed the risks of problem gambling, as it would allow residents to gamble at any time, and argued that it could increase problem gambling in the state. In contrast, those in favour of the bill argued that there are already illegal operators in the state, and at least if it is legalized, then the state will be receiving taxes from the income.
