A court decision on the legality of skilled gaming machines in Virginia is expected soon. In anticipation of that action, the Town of Marion is considering an ordinance to limit the number of such machines in businesses until state regulations are developed.

A judge is expected to hear a lawsuit that challenges the commonwealth’s ban on the machines in early November.

In 2020, the state legislature took action that banned the machines effective July 1, 2021, but a judge granted a temporary injunction that allowed skilled gaming machines to continue operating until the hearing.

The attorney representing the plaintiffs is one of the General Assembly’s own, Sen. Bill Stanley. He represents Sadler Brothers Oil Company, owned by former NASCAR driver Hermie Sadler, who operates several businesses that feature the game machines.