Lawmakers attempted a similar overhaul last year, but that effort stalled in committee
Virginia lawmakers are once again weighing a proposal that would reshape how gambling is regulated across the state. A newly filed bill would create a standalone Virginia Gaming Commission, bringing oversight of all legal gambling activities under one central authority.
The proposal, introduced as House Bill 271, aims to replace the current system where regulatory duties are split among several agencies. Supporters argue that the existing structure has become difficult to manage as gambling options in Virginia have expanded in recent years.
If approved, the new commission would oversee casinos, sports betting, the state lottery, historical horse racing, and charitable gaming. A governor-appointed commissioner would handle daily operations while reporting to a gaming commission board responsible for broader policy and direction.
The bill also outlines several internal divisions focused on compliance, audits, policy development, and problem gambling. Lawmakers backing the measure say this setup would allow for more consistent enforcement and clearer accountability across the industry.
Under the plan, regulatory responsibilities would shift away from the Virginia Lottery, the Virginia Racing Commission, and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Employees moving to the new agency would keep their benefits, and the commission would be funded through licensing fees and penalties rather than taxpayer dollars.
The legislation includes tougher penalties for violations, such as large fines for tampering with gaming equipment or operating illegal gambling activities. It also grants the commission authority to suspend or revoke licenses and issue civil penalties for fraud or misleading conduct.
With Virginia’s gaming market continuing to grow, supporters believe the timing may now be right to revisit the idea. House Bill 271 is currently awaiting committee assignment, where debate over the future of gambling oversight is expected to resume.
