Fairfax casino bill advances, others stall

(The Center Square) – Virginia lawmakers wrapped up the session with mixed results on gambling legislation, advancing a Fairfax casino proposal while other measures stalled.

Senate Bill 756, introduced by Sen. Scott Surovell, cleared both chambers in conference, according to the Virginia Legislative Information System. The measure would add Fairfax County to the list of localities eligible to host a casino, reopening debate over expanding gambling in Northern Virginia.

The proposal requires any casino development to be part of a mixed-use project totaling at least 1.5 million square feet and mandates voter approval through a local referendum before any casino could move forward. The bill now heads to the governor for consideration.

A state fiscal analysis found no anticipated impact unless a project proceeds following voter approval.

Another measure, Senate Bill 661, also cleared both chambers and establishes a framework to regulate electronic skill game machines under state oversight. The bill now heads to the governor ...