Virginia Considers Legalizing Online Casino Gambling

Bill would bring iGaming to the state, raising concerns from those with gambling addiction

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A bill moving through the Virginia General Assembly would legalize online casino games, known as iGaming. While supporters say it would create jobs and provide a safe regulated alternative to the illegal market, those who have experienced gambling addiction firsthand are sounding the alarm, worried about the ease and addictive nature of online gambling.

Why it matters

Virginia has already legalized in-person casino gambling and online sports betting, and legalizing iGaming would further expand gambling options in the state. However, there are concerns that easy access to online gambling could exacerbate issues with gambling addiction, which can have significant personal and societal impacts.

The details

The bill, proposed by Hampton State Senator Mamie Locke, would legalize iGaming in Virginia. Supporters say it would create jobs by requiring live dealer studios to be based in the state, and provide consumer protections and age verification that the current unregulated $16 billion industry lacks. But Bob Cabaniss, who runs a gambling addiction treatment center, worries the ease of online gambling will make it more addictive. The bill includes some safeguards like prohibiting credit card use, but Cabaniss remains concerned about the potential for harm.

  • The bill is currently moving through the Virginia General Assembly.
  • If approved, it would head to Governor Spanberger's desk, though lawmakers would have to pass it again next year for it to become law.

The players

Mamie Locke

Hampton State Senator who has proposed the bill to legalize iGaming in Virginia.

Bob Cabaniss

A Virginia resident who says he gambled away millions of dollars over several decades and now runs a treatment center that specializes in gambling addiction.

Marcus Simon

Delegate from Fairfax County, Virginia who is sponsoring the iGaming bill in the House.

Keith Smith

President and CEO of Boyd Gaming, which is partnering with the Pamunkey Indian Tribe on a casino project in Norfolk, Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“This is currently a $16 billion unregulated industry paying no taxes, creating no jobs, and lacking essential consumer protections and age verifications.”

— Mamie Locke, State Senator (wtkr.com)

“I think the best way to combat the illegal operators is to create a legal alternative for them, bring them in and then have them subject to the regulations.”

— Marcus Simon, Delegate (wtkr.com)

“I've been around a long time and I had a gambling problem. I think it's an awful idea. The ease of doing it online makes it a lot more addictive - repetition helps get someone addicted to anything.”

— Bob Cabaniss, Gambling Addiction Treatment Center Operator (wtkr.com)

What’s next

If approved, the bill would head to Governor Spanberger's desk, though lawmakers would have to pass it again next year for it to actually become law.

The takeaway

The debate over legalizing online casino gambling in Virginia highlights the tension between providing economic opportunities and consumer protections, and the potential risks of expanding access to addictive gambling activities. As the state considers this legislation, the concerns of those who have experienced the harms of gambling addiction will be an important factor to weigh.