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State of Play
- Virginia lawmakers have taken a significant step toward legalizing online casino gambling with the introduction of House Bill 161.
- This move aims to expand the state’s regulated gaming market beyond sports betting, offering new opportunities and protections for players.
- The bill proposes a structured framework for licenses, taxation, and consumer safeguards, positioning Virginia alongside neighboring states that already embrace online casinos.
House Bill 161 was pre-filed for the 2026 General Assembly session and outlines the legalization of online casino gaming, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and other casino games in a regulated digital environment.
The bill establishes licensing requirements, including operator background checks and financial disclosures, while empowering the Virginia Lottery Board to oversee compliance and enforcement.
It also incorporates responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion options and spending limits. The legislation aims to generate badly needed tax revenue for the state as it faces a billion-dollar deficit in 2027.
Bill would legalize online poker
HB 161 could open access to a variety of regulated online casino games on their mobile devices or computers, offering a safe and legally sanctioned gambling experience.
It would also legalize online poker and allow the state to enter the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, which would allow Virginia poker players to compete against players in a handful of other states.
Licensed operators, some of whom currently manage sports betting platforms, would have the opportunity to expand their offerings, enhancing Virginia’s gaming market diversity. Regulators would need to develop robust oversight systems to manage the new iGaming sector, potentially increasing jobs and investments in the state.
The bill reflects a broader national trend toward expanding online gambling options in a regulated manner to boost revenue and player protections.
Based on reporting by Mark Sullivan for Gaming America.
