Possible Vote on Casino in Petersburg, VA, Comes Further Into Focus

Article by : Erik Gibbs Mar 13, 2024

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Last week witnessed a shift in the odds of a casino establishment in Petersburg after the Virginia General Assembly’s March 9 adjournment.

A decisive 78-18 vote in the House of Delegates propelled Senate Bill 628, aiming to designate Petersburg as a host city for a commercial casino resort. Following this, the Senate engaged in a 24-16 vote to affirm the House’s change and pass the bill.

While the Virginia Senate had initially endorsed the legislation with a 29-10 vote on February 9, a new development emerged. House lawmakers introduced an amendment mandating a second vote during a “subsequent regular or special session.”

This twist prevented SB 628 from promptly advancing to Governor Glenn Youngkin’s desk for approval and subsequently to the November election ballot.

Instead, the provision puts the Petersburg casino initiative on hold until the upcoming year or a potential special legislative session, which Governor Youngkin might convene this spring to finalize crucial legislation.

City officials in Petersburg and casino supporters are optimistic about the potential recall of the Virginia General Assembly to Richmond this spring, initiated by the governor.

This tradition of special sessions, especially after even-numbered years with biennial budgets, could provide an opportunity.

Governor Youngkin, following this tradition, called a special session in 2022 after reviewing the proposed budget. Youngkin is currently reviewing the $188 billion 2024-26 budget and legislation for a $2 billion sports arena in Alexandria. His decisions have significant financial implications for Virginia taxpayers.

If lawmakers return, there’s a strong chance Senate Pro Tempore Louise Lucas may use her influence for another vote on SB 628. Lucas, known as the “casino lady” of Virginia, co-sponsors the Petersburg casino bill with Senator Lashrecse Aird.

Lucas shifted her stance after Senator Joseph Morrissey’s removal, initially opposing Petersburg’s casino designation. Now, with Richmond’s repeated rejections, she supports relocating the license to Petersburg.

If a special session is called, and SB 628 gains support in the Virginia General Assembly, it would await Governor Youngkin’s approval.

Youngkin has expressed openness to endorsing a Petersburg casino. If approved, voters in the November election can voice their stance on the casino resort.

The city council will oversee a competitive bid process to determine project details before the fall election. Petersburg initiated an RFP for the casino, seeking 500 hotel rooms, a casino, restaurants, retail and a concert venue.

Developers must make an upfront payment of $60 million. The referendum will include specifics, and if a majority votes “yes,” the casino will be authorized.