Virginia has taken a significant step towards opening its first land-based casino after the state’s lottery board voted 7-0 in favour of issuing a facility operating licence to Hard Rock Bristol.
Aiming to open Virginia’s first casino in July via a temporary facility, the Virginia Lottery Gaming Compliance Department will continue to have regular dialogue with Hard Rock Bristol.
Since enacted by the 2020 General Assembly, the Board’s priority for casino gaming in the Commonwealth is that it be conducted with integrity and in a responsible manner,” said Board Chairman Ferhan Hamid. “Today’s approval reflects the confidence we have in the rigorous and conscientious review conducted by Virginia Lottery staff.”
Furthermore, the Board voted in favour of extending the state’s gambling rules to include casinos in the Voluntary Exclusion Program operated by the Virginia Lottery.
It comes as the lottery is reviewing further applications for another three casinos to open in the state in Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.
“The Virginia Lottery has worked diligently for two years to build the appropriate regulatory structure for casino gaming,” added acting Executive Director, Kelly T. Gee.
“I am proud of the tireless work by our Gaming Compliance Department and our legal counsel for conducting the necessary investigative work to assist the Board in its decision. There are still many steps to the finish line, but there is no doubt that this is an exciting time.”
Virginia Lottery Deputy Executive Director of Gaming Compliance, Gina M. Smith, concluded: “We will be on-site at the casino over the next couple of months observing the receipt of gaming equipment, reviewing internal controls, and ensuring full compliance with the regulations.”