New Virginia Casino Initiative Passes First Test
The Virginia Senate Gaming Subcommittee has advanced legislation that could lead to the development of a casino in Tysons, Virginia. On January 20, the subcommittee approved Senate Bill 982, which would grant the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors the authority to place a casino referendum on a future ballot.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The bill, introduced by Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, aims to establish a major entertainment hub in Tysons, including a casino, a state-of-the-art conference facility, and a performing arts venue. It passed by a vote of 5-2, with one abstention, and will now return to the full General Laws & Technology Committee for further consideration at its next scheduled meeting.
Related: Virginia Lawmakers to Make Another Attempt at Tysons CasinoProponents of the bill argue that the project could generate significant economic benefits for the region. The Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce estimates that the development could contribute an additional $140 million annually in tax revenue to Fairfax County while also boosting revenue for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Supporters of the bill, including union representatives and local business leaders, emphasized the economic potential of the project. According to estimates, the proposed development could create approximately 5,000 union jobs, providing a significant boost to the local labor market. Proponents argue that the project represents an opportunity to diversify Fairfax County's tax base and address budget challenges by generating additional local revenue.
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Criticism over Casino Remains High
Critics of the legislation raised concerns about the potential impact of the project on the community. Some residents and members of the No Fairfax Casino Coalition expressed opposition to the bill, arguing that the proposal prioritizes private interests over community needs.
They called for delaying the legislation until the Virginia Gaming Commission, a proposed regulatory body outlined in House Bill 2498, is fully operational. Opponents argue that establishing this commission would ensure proper evaluation and regulation of new gaming projects in line with state goals.
During the hearing, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors' official position on the bill was discussed. While the board has not taken a formal stance, individual supervisors have expressed differing opinions. Supervisors Walter Alcorn and Jimmy Bierman, whose districts border the proposed site, have voiced opposition to the project. Supervisor Dalia Palchik, representing the district that includes Tysons, has not yet made an official statement. The board's concerns include the allocation of gaming tax revenues, with a significant portion—over 70%—currently designated for the state rather than the local government.
Fairfax County Chairman Jeff McKay previously highlighted the need for a more equitable revenue-sharing arrangement in a letter to state officials. He noted that the county could generate substantial tax revenue from the Tysons area without the introduction of a casino, emphasizing the need to address the state's underfunding of key local services, such as education.
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