Virginia iGaming bill hits dead end, NAAiG applauds development

• A draft law seeking to legalize iGaming in Virginia failed to gain traction over the weekend
• The National Association Against iGaming applauded the development, highlighting the dangers of online gambling
• Oliver Barie, NAAiG's spokesman, acknowledges that the lawmakers' thoughtful decision protects families, communities and jobs across the state

Despite making progress, a proposal calling for the legalization of online casino gambling in Virginia hit a dead end.

That's the case for an iGaming draft legislation which died in Virginia's conference committee over the weekend, putting an end on the process, at least for the moment.

In light of the latest development, the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) applauded the lawmaker's decision to stop the progress of online gambling in the state.

NAAiG warns about the dangers of iGaming, praises the latest development

Had the iGaming legislation progressed, Virginia residents would've gained access to casino-style gambling on smartphones, tablets and other devices.

This uninterrupted, 24/7 online casino access would've resulted in significant harm for families and the existing land-based casino industry, stakeholders warned.

NAAiG acknowledged that the decision to stop iGaming comes in the context of an overwhelming opposition against online gambling across Virginia.

It said that most Virginians oppose the legalization of online gambling and, at the same time, worry about addiction and potential financial harm the activity may bring.

Currently, brick-and-mortar casinos support jobs and local communities, whereas iGaming may disrupt this model, NAAiG explained.

At the same time, NAAiG highlighted that iGaming opposition spans across party lines and 62% of the Virginia voters say they are less likely to back a candidate who supports online gambling.

This attitude, the organization said, is in line with online casino opposition in other states too.

Lawmakers show leadership by putting people before profit

Oliver Barie, NAAiG's spokesman, spoke with excitement about the latest development, Casino Guru News learned from a press release.

He said that lawmakers in Virginia have made the right call by declining the expansion of gambling with the addition of iGaming.

"This proposal would have placed casino-style gambling on every phone and smart device, creating serious risks for families, workers and local communities. Policymakers demonstrated leadership by putting people before profit," Barie added.

Moreover, NAAiG's spokesperson said: "We commend the legislators and members of the administration who carefully examined the consequences of this proposal."

Finally, he said that the lawmakers' decision highlights what can be described as a thoughtful approach to gaming policy and shows their dedication to protecting families, workers and communities across Virginia.

While the iGaming proposal was still picking up speed, the NAAiG collaborated with stakeholders, policymakers and community representatives to highlight the dangers associated with the legalization of online casino gambling.

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