Virginia 2023 Regular Session

Virginia Senate Bill SJR261

Introduced

1/12/23

Refer

1/12/23

Report Pass

1/27/23

Caption

Virginia Gaming Commission; joint subcommittee to study feasibility of establishing Commission.

Impact

The establishment of a Virginia Gaming Commission would centralize the regulation of all legal gaming activities in the state, excluding the state lottery. This transition would involve transferring regulatory authority from multiple state agencies, including the Virginia Lottery and other commissions responsible for charitable gaming and horse racing. The resolution emphasizes prioritizing problem gambling prevention and treatment within its framework, reflecting a comprehensive approach to managing the state's gaming landscape. It aligns with practices observed in other states that have adopted centralized gaming agencies.

Summary

SJR261 is a joint resolution aimed at establishing a Virginia Gaming Commission to streamline and regulate all forms of legalized gaming within the Commonwealth. The resolution proposes the creation of a joint subcommittee of the Senate and House committees to study the feasibility of consolidating gaming oversight under a single regulatory body. This step comes in response to the growing complexity and interest surrounding various forms of legalized gaming, including skill games and electronic video game terminals, and seeks to address the regulatory challenges presented by separating oversight among multiple entities.

Contention

While the creation of the Virginia Gaming Commission aims to enhance oversight and accountability, it may also raise concerns regarding the impact on existing regulatory bodies and their operations. Some stakeholders may view this consolidation as a potential overreach or an unnecessary bureaucratic layer, particularly if the recommended study indicates significant costs or logistical challenges. Additionally, the resolution's limits on joint subcommittee meetings and the requirement for explicit majorities for recommendations could lead to contentious debates on the future of gaming in Virginia.