Chavdar Vasilev is a journalist covering the casino and sports betting market sectors for CasinoBeats. He joined CasinoBeats in May 2025 and reports on industry-shaping stories across the US and beyond, including legislative debates, market...
Read Full BioThe No Fairfax Casino Coalition (NFCC), representing more than 200,000 Fairfax County residents, has endorsed plans to establish a Virginia Gaming Commission (VGC). In an August 25 announcement, the coalition stated that it supports a 2026 proposal from Delegate Paul Krizek and Senator Lashrecse Aird. NFCC also reaffirmed its firm opposition to any casino development in Fairfax County.
“The NFCC remains opposed to any legislation permitting casino development in Fairfax County. Simultaneously, we acknowledge the necessity for robust oversight and regulation of gaming activities throughout the Commonwealth,” said NFCC Chair Lynne Mulston.
She added that NFCC recommends a moratorium on new gaming facilities and online platforms until the VGC is “fully established and operational.”
Currently, the Virginia Lottery acts as an interim regulator of the state’s growing casino industry. There are ongoing discussions about establishing the VGC. The latest meeting of the specially formed Joint Subcommittee to Study the Feasibility of Establishing the Virginia Gaming Commission was held on August 19.
Why the Coalition Supports Oversight
The NFCC highlighted that a centralized regulatory body like the VGC would bring numerous advantages to Virginia:
- Enhanced Ability to Address the Explosion of Gaming: A dedicated regulatory body would ensure that the growth of gambling in the state, which includes casinos, racinos, online lotteries, and grey skill machines, is consistent with Virginia’s economic and social needs.
- Centralized Oversight: The establishment of a VGC will consolidate regulatory authority, as the current framework is fragmented among several agencies or nonexistent.
- Improved Efficiency: By streamlining gaming regulations under VGC, the agency would enhance regulatory efficiency and provide consistent enforcement across the industry.
- Enhanced Transparency: A dedicated commission will serve as a single point of contact for stakeholders. That includes citizens, law enforcement, and legislators, promoting greater accountability and open communication.
- Support for Problem Gambling: VGC would have the necessary tools to deal with gambling addiction. It would also support problem gambling initiatives and safeguards within the industry.
- Protection of Citizens: A centralized agency will ensure fairness, integrity, and reputability in Virginia’s gaming sector.
The coalition also urged lawmakers to preserve existing legal safeguards. That includes only local governments that may propose new casino host sites. Also, voter referendums — required under Virginia Code 58.1-4107 — must remain in place.
Political Momentum for State Gaming Commission
The NFCC’s endorsement builds on the momentum of discussions surrounding the establishment of the VGC.
The Joint Subcommittee’s goal is to examine the feasibility and potential impact of establishing the agency. It has held several meetings centered around establishing a unified oversight framework for casinos, sports betting, horse racing, fantasy sports, and charitable gaming under a single agency.
The push for reform has bicameral elements. Krizek, a Democrat representing Fairfax County, has been a longtime advocate for tighter gambling oversight. Senator Aird, a Democratic leader in the Senate, has likewise voiced concerns about consumer protection and responsible gambling standards.
The Subcommittee is expected to produce recommendations for the 2026 legislative session. Many consider establishing the VGC a priority for next year’s session.
Fairfax Casino Debate Looms in Background
While the commission debate is statewide, the NFCC endorsement is tied to a local casino battle unfolding in Fairfax County.
There’s been movement towards choosing Tysons as a possible casino site. However, the current Virginia law allows up to five casinos, all of which are already operating or under construction.
That has not stopped developer Comstock Companies. Comstock proposed a casino as an economic booster for the area, which is home to numerous office buildings that have struggled to maintain their financial stability since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The proposal has divided opinions among lawmakers and the public in Northern Virginia. For it to move forward, the legislature must pass a bill, and the governor must sign it into law. Then, residents would have the final word through a referendum.
Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell introduced a bill earlier this year. It passed in the Senate but failed in the House. Surovell cited a JLARC (state-commissioned) study that the casino would generate $232 million annually for the state.
Still, local organizations like NFCC and Rescue Reston, as well as municipalities like Vienna, have labeled the casino a threat to the area.
