Virginia sports betting bills head to Governor
Bills that would legalise certain forms of sports betting in Virginia have moved forward to Governor Ralph Northam for signature, after securing approval in the state’s House of Representatives and Senate.
House Bill 896, which sets out plans to legalise online and mobile sports betting, was passed by the House yesterday (March 8) by a vote of 59-35, after clearing those Senate on March 7 by a vote of 33-5.
The House yesterday also voted 60-35 in favour of HB 4, which would allow five brick-and-mortar casinos to open in Virginia, with each of these sites permitted to operate a land-based sportsbook facility.
Virginia’s 2020 legislative session had been due to conclude on March 7, but was allowed to run into overtime so that both bills could advance.
Both bills will now be sent forward Governor Northam for signature, and if each be ratified, they would come into law later this year.