Senator Mamie Locke pre-filed legislation in December to legalize online casinos in Virginia. Senate Bill 827 permits retail casinos to apply for online casino licenses in the state. Each retail casino would be able to collaborate with a maximum of three online service providers.

The first time Virginia lawmakers will consider online casinos

After the introduction of the Bill, it goes to Virginia’s General Laws and Technology Committee. It will be the first time Virginia lawmakers are considering online casinos. Virginia only has a 30-day legislative session in 2025 and there are various possible roadblocks. Looking at the process in other states where online gambling is legal, bills don’t often succeed right away.

An obstacle in the way of legalizing online gambling is that it needs support from brick-and-mortar casino operators. Not all Virginia operators are likely to support the legislation. Tethering online casino licensing to retail casinos can provide an incentive for some detractors to get on board.

Cordish Companies opposed online gambling expansion in Louisiana and Maryland. It believes that online casinos cannibalize revenue from retail casinos. However, the company is prepared to support online gambling once it is legalized. Parx Casino took a similar stance in Pennsylvania and now has a very successful online casino. Users can download a mobile app and play casino games on mobile devices.

Cost of licenses

A $1 million application fee would be valid for five years. Online platforms don’t have to be branded or co-branded with the existing casino operator brands. Platform providers must apply for licenses which cost $50,000 for five years. Temporary platform provider licenses lasting one year will also be available for $10,000.

Consumer protection

Opponents of online gambling fear the consequences that come with making gambling so convenient. Looking at the cultural angle, gambling addiction can have negative effects on families. However, casino games have also been a source of entertainment for centuries. Playing them can help to reduce stress and improve cognitive function.

Any bill to legalize only gambling will include consumer protections. Some of the standard protections include no gambling unless 21 or older, verifying of location, setting of limits, and voluntary self-exclusion.

Tax revenue and tourism

The tax for operators would be 15% of adjusted gross online gaming revenue and 2% of the collected revenue would go to the state’s Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund.

Tourism in Virginia is booming with so many wonderful small towns to visit and miles of beaches. The scenery is breathtaking, and history buffs can enjoy all the historic sites. With the legalization of online gambling, tourists would also be able to play casino games using mobile phones and the state would benefit from the revenue.