Virginia’s Cautious Approach to Petersburg Casino Plans

This clause, appended to the bill, necessitates the legislature’s second approval of the measure, either in a regular or special session, before it can take effect. This method offers a provisional green light to Petersburg’s casino ambitions, allowing the city to progress with planning while keeping the door open for legislative reversal.

Last month, the General Assembly sanctioned a bill that positioned Petersburg among Virginia cities qualified to host a casino. The approval process entails a ballot referendum where Petersburg voters would decide on the casino’s future. However, the inclusion of a reenactment clause implies that the legislative consent might be subject to review.

Petersburg’s Path Forward Amid Uncertainty

Petersburg is currently evaluating proposals from five potential casino developers, amidst this legislative ambiguity. The clause introduces a possibility for the General Assembly to retract its approval if the city’s selection process raises concerns among lawmakers. Despite the clause’s removal and re-addition during the legislative journey, the rationale behind its final inclusion remains unexplained by the legislators.

Sen. Lashrecse Aird, D-Petersburg, one of the bill’s sponsors, indicated ongoing discussions about the clause’s fate in the bill’s final version. The potential for Governor Glenn Youngkin to propose an amendment removing the clause adds another layer of uncertainty, with such an amendment slated for consideration in mid-April.

Casino Finalists and the Road Ahead

Amidst the legislative intricacies, Petersburg has announced five finalists for the casino project, including national entities like Bally’s and Penn, alongside other firms with varying degrees of involvement in Virginia’s political and gaming landscape.

Governor Youngkin expressed confusion about the reenactment clause’s purpose, highlighting the unusual nature of such an addition to what was initially a straightforward bill.