Virginia

Virginia’s sportsbooks set a new record in November with a $760.9M handle, while Sporttrade expands in the state. New Hampshire’s gambling age bill may impact DraftKings.

Skill-based games, or gray market machines, popular in Virginia had gotten legislative support but when the bill reached Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s desk he took a red pen to much of it, making the law far more restrictive.

Virginia legalizes gray machines, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s gambling landscape. With SB 212 awaiting Governor Glenn Youngkin’s signature, the contentious debate surrounding these skill games has intensified. Proponents argue that legalizing gray machines will provide vital revenue streams for small businesses, while opponents express concerns about their potential to exacerbate problem gambling. The bill, co-sponsored by Senators Aaron Rouse and L. Louise Lucas, includes stringent regulations such as a minimum age requirement of 21 and a 25% tax rate on revenues. Despite bipartisan support in the Senate and the House of Delegates, Governor Youngkin’s administration has raised apprehensions about regulatory structures and public safety implications. Digital Wager Wire will continue to monitor this unfolding story as Virginia navigates its new gambling regulations.

Virginia lawmakers are considering SB124 to legalize betting on Virginia college sports teams, expanding on the existing sports betting laws. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Schuyler VanValkenburg, aims to address the demand and prevent illegal gambling activities on Virginia college teams.