The likelihood of Petersburg, Virginia, being the fifth casino resort in the state has considerably increased with the passing of a proposal by the Virginia Senate that may bring this dream to reality.
With Senate Bill 628, the current population cap would be eliminated and the requirements for a host city would be changed. Petersburg may be able to realize its dream of a casino as the measure also modifies the definitions of tax-exempt real estate, unemployment, and poverty.
Influential Support and Legislative Milestones
Senate Bill 628 has gathered significant traction because to the support of prominent individuals like Senator Lashrecse Aird and Senate President Pro Tempore Louise Lucas. The project further the work of earlier supporters of the cause, such as Morrissey and Del. Kim Taylor.
Before winning handily in the Senate with the support of all 40 senators, Senate Bill 628 received unanimous approval from the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee. The bill will now go to the House of Delegates for final approval if it passes there. Governor Glenn Youngkin will be the one to sign it into law. Although Youngkin’s position is yet unknown, many believe he will support the measure.
Senate Bill 628’s possible adoption would be a major step forward in Petersburg’s protracted quest to open a casino. Although early ideas in 2021 were not well received, later attempts have maintained the possibility. In the midst of these changes, the Petersburg City Council has begun talking to operators of casinos about possible collaborations.
The Petersburg City Council gave its approval to a $1.4 billion casino resort contract with The Cordish Companies in December 2022. But this choice was criticized, which made the council reevaluate its strategy. In light of this, the council has decided to start a competitive bidding process for the casino project, demonstrating their dedication to openness and responsibility.
The post Petersburg Casino Plans Progress as Virginia Senate Advances Bill appeared first on iGaming.org.