The projected gains come alongside concerns about broader financial effects. Analysts expect reductions in lottery income following any online casino launch. Forecasts indicate iLottery revenue could fall by 25.5% in the first year after legalisation, with possible declines reaching 53% below expectations by fiscal year 2032. Estimates from the Department of Planning and Budget suggest yearly lottery profit losses between $77 million and $163 million. Additional staffing requirements for the Lottery could add roughly $1.16 million annually beginning in fiscal year 2028.
Opposition voices have focused heavily on addiction risks linked to digital gambling. During debate, Sen. Bill Stanley stated: “We are being asked to take the single most addictive device in human history, the smartphone … and now we’re being asked to put a slot machine on it, let that sink in for a moment.” He referred to public health findings suggesting online gambling can carry greater addiction risks than in-person betting.
Concerns also extend to employment at physical casino venues and possible shifts in consumer spending patterns if mobile gaming expands.
Senate Bill 118 now proceeds to the House of Delegates, where lawmakers are reviewing a separate measure, HB 161. That proposal includes a requirement for approval in two consecutive legislative sessions before becoming law. If applied to the Senate bill, implementation timing could extend beyond the current 2027 projection.
Lawmakers must still resolve differences between the chambers on timelines, regulatory language and procedural details. Additional gambling-related proposals under discussion this session include measures on daily fantasy sports, a potential casino framework in Fairfax, and regulatory rules for skill-based games. The next phase of legislative consideration will determine whether online casino regulation advances, changes direction or stalls.
Source:
Virginia Senate Advances iGaming Bill With 2027 Timeline, news.worldcasinodirectory.com, February 17, 2026
