Updated Virginia iGaming Bill and Push for Passage
January 6, 2026
Virginia has circulated an updated iGaming bill draft (summary below), and we expect the bill to be introduced within the next 10 days. Bill supporters intend to hold a press conference the week of January 19 to push for passage; although this is of course, is subject to change with legislative schedules. iDEA has submitted an op-ed to the Richmond Times Dispatch, which we plan to run in alignment with the push for passage by the bill sponsor.
VA iGaming Bill Summary
- Tax rate: 15% of AGR (no promo-deduction)
- Licensing: Casinos will obtain an “internet gaming operator license” and can contract with up to 3 skins (platforms) + the platform can offer a separate online poker only skin.
- Temporary Licenses: Temporary licenses can be awarded to “qualified internet gaming entities” which means you operate iGaming in at least two or more jurisdictions in the US.
- Fees:
- $2 million fee for platforms paid to the “Platform Fee Holding Fund” this fund is designed to fund the creation of a new gaming commission (separate legislation is needed to authorize the gaming commission); renews in 5 years at $1 million; term of the initial license tied to the license of the land-based casino and fees will be prorated accordingly.
- Casinos pay a $500,000 application fee to be able to contract with platforms; renewal at $250,000.
- Platforms pay a $50,000 application fee + $10,000 if seeking a temp license.
- No fees specified for suppliers, such as game content, geolocation, payments, age/id, etc.
- Live Dealer: permitted and no requirement that studios be located in Virginia.
- Hold Harmless: The bill establishes a fund (6% of AGR) to compensate land-based casino operators for verified revenue losses attributable to internet gaming
- PG Fund: 5% of AGR goes to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund
- Shared Accts: if authorized to offer OSB you can share account with online casino offering.
We will keep members informed regarding developments in the state and share iDEA’s op-ed when published. As always, please feel free to reach out with any questions.