Virginia is one step closer to legalizing online gambling, including poker, after both legislative chambers passed versions of an iGaming bill. The next hurdle is reconciling differences between the House and Senate versions before sending the legislation to Governor Abigail Spanberger for approval.
House and Senate Votes Highlight Tensions
The path to passage was anything but smooth. In the Senate, the bill initially failed 20-19 but passed a reconsideration vote 19-17, with three previous “no” votes abstaining.
In the House, the initial vote rejected the measure 49-46. However, after amendments were added to protect retail casino interests and address responsible gambling, a dramatic revote passed 67-30 in favor of legalization.
Heated Debate on iGaming’s Impact
The bill sparked passionate arguments. Del. Thomas Garrett Jr. drew sharp criticism by comparing iGaming to criminal activity:
“Do we need money so bad that we should tax and regulate fentanyl? Should we tax and regulate rape, murder, strong-arm robbery? … We don’t tax and regulate things that destroy people.”
Proponents countered that Virginians are already gambling online, and legalizing it would allow the state to regulate the industry and collect tax revenue, rather than leaving it to unregulated offshore platforms.
Prediction markets, heavily advertised nationwide and supported by the CFTC, add further pressure on Virginia to establish legal online betting options and secure local tax benefits.
Next Steps: Governor Approval and Gaming Commission
Even with passage in both chambers, obstacles remain. The House and Senate must reconcile amendments before the bill reaches the governor. Support from Governor Spanberger is not guaranteed.
Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Katie Frazier emphasized that the governor wants a gaming commission in place first:
“Governor Spanberger is deeply concerned about any discussions of gaming expansion … without a single entity with clear authority, consistent standards, and strong compliance and enforcement capabilities.”
Virginia is already advancing SB271 to establish this commission, which passed committee votes and the full House 90-7.
If all approvals fall into place, Virginia’s iGaming expansion could launch by July 1, 2027, ushering in regulated online poker and other digital gambling opportunities for residents.
