Senator Surovell to Reintroduce Casino License Proposal
Virginia Senator Scott Surovell has announced plans to reintroduce his proposal for a new casino license in Fairfax County. Currently, there are five licensed casinos operating in Virginia, but Surovell aims to increase this number during discussions in 2026.
Funding Concerns for Fairfax County
In a conversation with FFXNow, Surovell emphasized the urgent need for funding in Fairfax County. He noted that the county’s commercial tax base is deteriorating, making it challenging to sustain essential services such as education and public safety. He believes that establishing an entertainment district is vital to generate the necessary revenue.
Previous Casino Legislation and Local Opposition
For the 2025 legislative session, Surovell filed SB982, which passed in the Senate but failed to advance in the House of Delegates due to local opposition, particularly in the Tysons area. This sentiment remains a significant hurdle for future casino proposals.
Fairfax County Board’s Position
In alignment with Surovell’s statements, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recently voted against any casino legislation unless formally requested by them. The resolution emphasizes concerns about property values and the development of other businesses, with a close 5-4 vote reflecting the divided opinion among supervisors.
Potential Changes to Gaming Regulation
The Virginia Lottery currently regulates casinos and sports wagering in the state. Delegate Paul Krizek has been advocating for a shift in this regulatory structure by proposing HB2498 to establish a Virginia Gaming Commission. However, this proposal did not make it to the House floor.
Surovell’s Influence and Future Discussions
As Senate Majority Leader, Surovell’s viewpoint is significant in the legislative process. He has expressed support for exploring a state gaming commission, which could influence the chances of establishing a casino in Fairfax County. He cautioned against discussing the commission separately to avoid disadvantaging Fairfax County.
Future of Online Casino Regulation
The conversation around gaming regulations also extends to the oversight of real money online casinos in Virginia, an issue that has yet to be addressed significantly. Virginia Senator Mamie Lock previously filed a bill on this topic for 2025 but decided to postpone it until 2026, leaving the future of both online and brick-and-mortar casinos uncertain.
