Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Tysons Casino Bill Clears Virginia Legislature, Awaits Spanberger’s Decision

The project cannot proceed without a countywide referendum authorized by Fairfax leaders.

Overview

  • Lawmakers approved a reconciled SB756 and sent it to the governor after the House and Senate passed differing versions earlier in the session.
  • The measure confines any casino to Tysons by requiring a 1.5 million-square-foot mixed-use site near a Silver Line station and within two miles of a major mall.
  • Negotiators removed an earlier allowance for a five-year temporary casino, leaving only a potential permanent resort subject to voter approval.
  • Governor Abigail Spanberger has not indicated her position as opponents begin a veto campaign and no statewide gaming commission is established in the bill.
  • Even if enacted, the Fairfax Board of Supervisors must permit a countywide referendum, which Chairman Jeff McKay says he does not plan to allow, and local tax revenue would be earmarked for K-12 schools.