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Virginia lawmakers propose two new iGaming bills
Various Virginia lawmakers have made proposals regarding gambling regulations during the 2026 session, including online casino legalization and the creation of a gambling commission.
Delegate Marcus Simon introduced the HB 161 bill, which proposes legalizing online casinos. Meanwhile, Delegate Paul Krizek plans to introduce a bill to set up a Virginia Gaming Commission, which will manage the expanding gambling industry of the state.
Under HB 161, the Virginia Lottery Board would be responsible for the online casino industry. The tax rate would be set at 15%, of which 5% would be dedicated to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund.
If the proposal is passed, Virginia’s casinos could operate up to three skins, and each platform would pay a $2 million license fee.
In 2025, Delegate Marcus Simon and Senator Mamie Locke introduced two new bills on online casinos. Despite this, lawmakers believe a new regulatory agency is needed for supervising the growing gambling industry.
Moreover, in 2025, former Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin planned to introduce the Virginia Gaming Commission in the budget; however, the Democratic leadership rejected his idea.
Land-based casinos were made legal in Virginia in 2019, while sports betting was legalized in 2020.
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