Virginia lawmakers consider bill to authorize gaming facility

Wednesday, February 5, 2014  

Lawmakers in Virginia are considering a bill to authorize a casino, a move that would open up gaming for any federally recognized tribes in the state.

The Senate General Laws and Technology Committee voted 7-5 to approve the bill for a casino in Portsmouth, in the far southeastern part of the state. The bill faces long odds but it could help Virginia compete with Maryland -- a $925 million casino is coming to the National Harbor, a hotel, convention and entertainment venue that's less than 10 miles rom the U.S. Capitol -- and Delaware.

If gaming is authorized in Virginia, the Pamunkey Tribe would be able to open a casino after its federal recognition becomes final. The tribe hasn't expressed interest in gaming so far, however.

Get the Story:
Bill allowing Portsmouth casinos clears committee (The Virginian-Pilot 2/4)
Long-shot Va. casino bill comes up aces in Senate committee vote (The Washington Post 2/4)

Pamunkey Tribe went to England to document recognition bid (2/4)
MGM Resorts wins license for gaming facility by Washington DC (12/23)