The General Assembly meeting in January is anticipated to provide a boost to efforts to build a casino in Fairfax County, Virginia. Proposing a casino in the busy Tysons Corner neighborhood, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell spearheads the effort to put a referendum on the ballot.
Revenue vs. Risks
Surovell argues that Fairfax County loses substantial revenue to Maryland’s MGM Casino, which funds schools and infrastructure across the Potomac. He believes a casino in Tysons Corner could ease property tax pressures and boost the local economy.
However, the proposal faces fierce opposition. A group of over 100 former national security and intelligence professionals has expressed concerns, highlighting the area’s proximity to key military and government facilities like the CIA.
In a letter, the group warned that a casino could attract organized crime and foreign intelligence operations, posing risks to individuals with access to sensitive information. They also pointed to the gambling addiction rates among military personnel, who may be particularly vulnerable to exploitation.
Sally Horn, co-chair of the opposition group, emphasized cybersecurity risks, alongside societal challenges casinos often bring. Critics also doubt the financial benefits for Fairfax County, noting that state governments typically claim the majority of casino-generated revenue, leaving local authorities to handle the social and economic fallout.
This isn’t the first attempt to bring a casino to Fairfax County. A similar bill introduced by Senator Dave Marsden failed due to strong opposition.
While supporters argue that a casino could reduce tax burdens and encourage economic growth, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chair Jeff McKay remains skeptical. McKay has voiced concerns about the lack of collaboration with state officials and doubts whether residents would support the initiative.
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