Virginia lawmakers are exploring the creation of a state agency to regulate the expanding gaming industry, following five years of rapid growth in gambling options across the state. Currently, oversight is managed by a patchwork of state agencies, leading to calls for more streamlined regulation.
Virginia has had lottery and pari-mutuel betting for over three decades, but recent years have seen a surge in gambling options, from casinos to online betting. The fragmented regulation of the industry has prompted concerns from lawmakers, including Del. Terry Austin (R-Botetourt Co.), a member of the joint subcommittee studying the feasibility of establishing the Virginia Gaming Commission.
“I think oftentimes maybe we get complacent, and things grow and we don’t acknowledge the growth. We don’t acknowledge the value that they can bring and sort of we lose control,” Austin said. “So now, we’re reeling all of this back in.”
During a subcommittee meeting in Richmond, a consultant recommended maintaining the Virginia Lottery as a separate agency while creating a new Virginia Gaming Commission to oversee other forms of gambling. Austin did not comment on this specific recommendation but stressed the importance of consolidating oversight.
“VDACS (Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) regulates some of it. State Police now investigate and regulate some of it. Casinos have their regulations, their policies, how those machines report back to the Commonwealth, so we’ve got a good accounting of what’s taking place,” Austin told WDBJ7.
Problem gambling has also become a significant issue, and Austin emphasized the need for better enforcement and support for individuals who seek help. “We need to be able to support all of that,” he added.
Austin expressed particular interest in how any regulatory changes might impact Virginia’s equine industry and non-profits that rely on revenue from charitable gaming. He expects the subcommittee to recommend legislation for consideration by the General Assembly in January.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/noticias/2024/08/23/76330-virginia-lawmakers-weigh-creation-of-state-gaming-commission
