Faced with strong opposition, Governor Glenn Youngkin’s changes to the proposition aiming to legalize and tax skill games were refuted by the Virginia Senate. Yet, a veto on the legislation from Youngkin still looms as a possibility, preventing skill games from being decriminalized.
Skill games have been a subject of intense debate for numerous years. Although similar in certain aspects to slot machines, proponents argue that these games provide players with the ability to elect winning paylines, thus invoking a particular skill set.
Despite this, these machines have, until recently, remained largely unregulated. A ban on skill games was first ratified in 2020 and executed the following year. It was later suspended due to the implications of the COVID pandemic and reinstated in 2023. Presently, supporters of skill games are making attempts to modify the existing law.
The recent legislative measure proposed the legalization and taxation of these skill games. However, Governor Youngkin integrated amendments into this proposal which prohibited the operation of skill games within 2,500 feet of educational institutions, religious establishments, and within a 35-mile radius of any casino. The governor also proposed a substantial tax hike – from the current 25% ratified by the General Assembly, to a steep 35%.
Executing Youngkin’s changes would severely limit the regions where providers can operate slot games across Virginia. The harsh amendments faced immediate backlash from supporters of skill games, leading to a 34-6 rejection of Youngkin’s proposals by the Senate.
Although a veto on the legislations by Youngkin remains a possibility, it is anticipated that lawmakers may assemble to deliberate on this issue instead.
A spokesperson for Governor Youngkin responded to the issue, indicating that the governor harbors deep reservations regarding certain components of the law. Nonetheless, he remains open to reassessing some of the geographical boundaries defined by his propositions.
The State of Virginia: A House Divided
The issue continues to polarize Virginians. Some argue for the imposition of limitations on skill games, while others assert that revenue from these games form an essential lifeline for numerous smaller enterprises.
Munir Rassiwala, a proprietor of several convenience stores in the state, voiced his dissatisfaction with the governor’s preference for larger establishments over smaller businesses, despite having voted for Youngkin in the past elections.
In contrast, advocacy group Virginians Against Neighbourhood Slot Machines call upon the governor to preserve public safety by vetoing the bill.
Delegate Paul Krizek, a long-time advocate for stringent regulatory measures for skill games, suggested a compromising approach, stating that “half a loaf is better than no loaf.” He believes there is room to negotiate a middle ground between the governor and proponents of skill gaming.
