Fairfax County leaders have tried to halt local casino initiatives
A Virginia lawmaker plans to revive a proposal next year that would give Fairfax County voters a chance to decide on a casino in Tysons. Sen. Scott Surovell said he will refile legislation when the 2026 General Assembly session opens in January, after a similar effort stalled earlier this year.
Surovell argues the county needs new ways to raise money as budget pressures grow. He has pointed to a projected shortfall and says a resort-style casino near the Spring Hill Metro station could bring in long-term revenue. His proposal would again require a local referendum, meaning no casino could move forward without voter approval.
Supporters say Tysons is a strong candidate due to its transit access, office base, and proximity to out-of-state casinos in Maryland. They believe a project there could keep entertainment dollars closer to home instead of flowing across state lines.
Fairfax County leaders, however, remain divided. Earlier this month, the Board of Supervisors voted 5–4 to oppose casino legislation tied to Tysons. Several supervisors said decisions about land use should start locally, not in Richmond, and warned that a casino could disrupt long-standing development plans for the area.
Concerns have also been raised about how gambling revenue would be split between the state and the county. Opponents say Fairfax would take on the impacts while Richmond collects much of the tax benefit.
Alongside the casino debate, Del. Paul Krizek plans to introduce a separate bill to create a Virginia Gaming Commission. The goal would be to place oversight of casinos, sports betting, and racing under one regulator instead of several agencies.
Both proposals are expected to face close scrutiny when lawmakers return to Richmond. Hearings will likely include local officials, casino interests, and community groups, setting the stage for another heated discussion over gambling’s role in Northern Virginia.
