Published on: March 9, 2026, at 04:22h.
Updated on: March 8, 2026, at 02:23h.
- The chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors indicates that a competitive bidding process for a casino may not occur, even if state legislation permits it.
- There is significant opposition from Fairfax homeowners and civic organizations against the casino proposal.
Fairfax County in Northern Virginia has favorable prospects for casino development eligibility. Local officials assert that state lawmakers are misdirecting their efforts.
Members of the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate will soon convene to resolve differences in legislation regarding Fairfax’s inclusion as a potential locality for slots, table games, and sports betting. Although both chambers passed Senate Bill 756, discrepancies remain regarding referendum requirements, licensing costs, and distribution of revenue.
The Senate’s version, introduced by Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell (D-Fairfax), stipulates that a simple majority of voters in Fairfax must endorse the casino for the project to advance. Conversely, the House’s substitute proposal, rejected by the Senate, necessitated a dual referendum, requiring support from both countywide voters and a majority within the specific magisterial district targeted for the casino.
The Senate bill calls for an even split of tax revenue derived from a Fairfax casino, distributing 50% to both the county and state. Meanwhile, the House version proposes an initial $150 million fee, allocating $75 million to Fairfax, but retaining 75% of the ongoing gaming taxes for the state.
By comparison, Virginia’s existing five casinos only paid upfront licensing fees of $15 million.
Much Ado About Nothing
Both iterations of Virginia SB756 would permit the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to accept bids for a casino venture.
The statute specifies that the “eligible host locality … shall select a proposed casino.” There is no mandate within the law compelling the county to execute a competitive bidding process.
In an interview with WTOP, Jeff McKay, chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, expressed concerns that even if a consensus is reached on SB756 and Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) signs it into law, the opportunity may remain unrealized.
“I will not endorse a referendum. I refuse to subject my constituents to vote on an arrangement that is evidently unfavorable,” McKay stated.
“This proposal is fundamentally a poor financial arrangement for Fairfax County residents. It continues a trend in Richmond where state revenue takes precedence. The state stands to gain significantly while we bear the burden,” McKay added.
Referendum Concerns
McKay voiced apprehension that the conference committee managing SB756’s finalization may impose a requirement for Fairfax County to conduct a competitive bidding process for the casino and to seek voter approval.
“At the very least, local authorities should retain the power to decide whether a referendum is necessary,” advocated McKay.
As reported previously by Casino.org, both Caesars Entertainment and Wynn Resorts are currently analyzing SB756 and have shown early interest in potential opportunities related to the proposed legislation.