House Bill 161 was pre-filed for the 2026 General Assembly session and outlines the legalization of online casino gaming, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and other casino games in a regulated digital environment.
The bill establishes licensing requirements, including operator background checks and financial disclosures, while empowering the Virginia Lottery Board to oversee compliance and enforcement.
It also incorporates responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion options and spending limits. The legislation aims to generate badly needed tax revenue for the state as it faces a billion-dollar deficit in 2027.
HB 161 could open access to a variety of regulated online casino games on their mobile devices or computers, offering a safe and legally sanctioned gambling experience.
