Virginia Reviews Gambling Oversight and Legalisation in 2026

Gambling growth changes the landscape

Virginia’s gambling industry has grown quickly since casino gambling became legal in 2019. Sports betting followed in 2020, and online options soon reached users statewide. What started as limited expansion now looks far larger — and more complex.

Three permanent casinos now operate in the state, with two temporary sites open or preparing to open. Lawmakers are also reviewing other possible locations. At the same time, gambling has spread beyond casinos into many communities.

Horse racing, historical racing terminals, charitable bingo, and poker tournaments now operate statewide. Online sports betting and daily fantasy contests also attract users. Each activity brings revenue, but also adds pressure to an already divided oversight system.

Lawmakers push for one gaming regulator

Delegate Paul Krizek plans to introduce a bill creating a Virginia Gaming Commission. The goal is simple. One agency would oversee all gambling instead of three.

Right now, casinos and sports betting fall under the Virginia Lottery Board. Horse racing is handled by the Virginia Racing Commission. Charitable gambling and fantasy contests fall under another department. Krizek says this split causes delays, repeated work, and uneven rules — problems that may grow as gambling expands.

Supporters say a single commission could improve fairness and trust. Clear rules could help businesses follow the law and protect users. A unified agency could also focus more on problem gambling programs and enforcement.

Last year, the idea failed to gain support. Former Governor Glenn Youngkin sought to fund the commission, but lawmakers rejected the plan. Still, interest in the idea appears to be growing.

Online casino bill returns

Delegate Marcus Simon has introduced HB 161, bringing online casino legalisation back into focus. The bill would allow online casinos statewide. Oversight would remain with the Virginia Lottery Board — for now.

Each land-based casino could run up to three online casinos. Each license would cost $2 million. The bill sets a 15 percent tax rate and directs five percent of revenue to problem gambling treatment and support. Key points in HB 161 include:

• Three online casinos per land-based casino

• $2 million license fee

• Funding for treatment programs

Decision looms in 2026

Virginia’s gambling growth brings money and jobs, but also risk. Oversight gaps may widen without changes. Lawmakers now face a key question — expand gambling further or fix regulation first.

The 2026 session could answer that question. Whatever lawmakers decide may shape Virginia’s gambling industry for years.