Virginia State Senators Unlikely to Legalize Gambling in 2019

Many Virginians were hopeful that the state will legalize sports betting and casinos this year. However, Virginia state senators are not too keen on passing a gambling bill any time soon. Some senators said there are more pressing concerns aside from legalizing sports betting.

Although lawmakers pre-filed several gambling bills, their colleagues want to conduct more study on the issue. Senator Frank Ruff told industry news sites that he doesn’t want to hear about gambling. He is the head of the Senate General Laws Committee that met last Friday to discuss the topic.

In addition, Ruff said the bills have conflicting proposals. A short session is not enough to find a compromise. As a result, senators want more time to research about sportsbook pay per head trends and the gambling industry in general.

Virginia State Senators on Gambling

Senator Frank Wagner filed a bill that will allow sports betting through the Virginia Lottery. In addition, he said the state will have more revenue and control on the activity. However, some senators have different opinions on the topic.

On the other hand, Senator Chap Petersen wants a private company to operate sports gambling at brick-and-mortar locations. He added that it will allow bettors to go outside their homes.

Other gambling stakeholders were present at the General Assembly. One of them is the chief of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe. He wants lawmakers to allow the Pamunkey Tribe to build a casino in Norfolk.

Moreover, he stated that Virginia should not ignore his people who were there before anyone else. He found it ironic that the gathering took place Pocahontas Building, the most popular ancestor of the Pamunkey Tribe.

The horseracing industry wants Virginia state senators to prevent jeopardizing the soon-to-open gaming emporium by Colonial Downs. The new facility will have historical horse racing, as well as other amenities including restaurants, doughnut shop, and bars.