The lawmaker has been trying for years to bring a casino to Fairfax County
Virginia Senator Dave Marsden is once again advocating for the construction of a casino in Fairfax County, specifically in Tysons. Legislation enabling Northern Virginia residents to vote on the matter is expected to be introduced in January. This marks the third consecutive year Marsden has pushed for Fairfax to be considered a viable location for a commercial casino, despite resistance from local officials and community members.
Marsden’s earlier efforts faced setbacks. His proposed Senate Bill 675 was withdrawn by the Senate Finance & Appropriations Resources subcommittee earlier this year and postponed until 2025, where it is unlikely to gain traction. Undeterred, he plans to submit a revised version when the Senate reconvenes on January 8.
The senator has emphasized the potential economic benefits of a casino in Tysons, including tens of millions of dollars in annual tax revenue that could alleviate the region’s property tax burden. He argues that Fairfax County needs new revenue sources as remote work has left a significant amount of office space in Tysons vacant. Marsden also intends to commission a public poll to gauge support for the casino and educate residents about its possible economic advantages.
Despite these efforts, the idea has faced staunch opposition from homeowner associations, town leaders, and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Critics argue that Tysons, unlike the economically disadvantaged areas targeted by Virginia’s 2020 gaming law, doesn’t meet the criteria for casino development.
Unions like the Northern Virginia AFL-CIO and Unite Here Local 23 support the project, highlighting the potential for job creation and economic growth. However, state law mandates that any casino development be approved through a local referendum. Marsden’s challenge lies in convincing Fairfax residents to vote in favor, a task he believes is worth pursuing for the county’s financial future.
