The Governor of Virginia, Abigail Spanberger, has vetoed SB 756, which suggested creating a casino in Fairfax County and was previously approved by the State Senate. After the Fairfax County casino bill moved to Governor Spanberger on March 13, 2026, Spanberger stressed that creating a casino based on the voters’ decision was against Virginia’s rules
The Governor of Virginia, Abigail Spanberger, has vetoed SB 756, which suggested creating a casino in Fairfax County and was previously approved by the State Senate.
After the Fairfax County casino bill moved to Governor Spanberger on March 13, 2026, Spanberger stressed that creating a casino based on the voters’ decision was against Virginia’s rules for casino approvals. Aside from SB 756, the proposal included another bill, SB 661, which aimed to legalize skill games.
Spanberger explained:
“Local governing boards should lead on proposed casino development, as has happened in every locality that now has a casino. But in Fairfax County, the Board of Supervisors has explicitly opposed this legislation, and an overwhelming majority of the General Assembly members who represent Fairfax voted against it. Accordingly, I veto this bill.”
Additionally, Governor Spanberger urged the creation of a unified entity to supervise all forms of gambling in Virginia.
The Governor stated:
“The absence of a centralized regulatory authority for gaming creates gaps in oversight that threaten the Commonwealth of Virginia’s ability to provide consistent enforcement, prevent illicit activity, and protect all consumers. Right now, legalizing skill gaming and introducing more of these machines into our communities would strain an already fragmented system.”
Officials have expressed their satisfaction with the decision, including the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors in Virginia, Jeff McKay, and Lynne Mulston from the No Fairfax Casino Coalition.