RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) is proposing big changes to a bill meant to legalize skill games in Virginia.
“The governor’s amendments [are] just a slap in the face to thousands of small businesses throughout our Commonwealth,” said Sen. Aaron Rouse (D-Virginia Beach), the patron of the original bill.
Included in Youngkin’s amendments is language prohibiting skill games within 35 miles of casinos, racetracks, or satellite horse wagering locations, such as Rosie’s Gaming Emporiums. This is something not included in the bill passed by the General Assembly.
“That knocks out Virginia Beach, that knocks out Portsmouth — that knocks out the majority of the state,” Rouse said.
Those against these amendments argue they will impact the livelihoods of those in that radius.
“Somebody who is just a mile away from me — just because he is outside that 35-mile radius, is being able to do the game machine and I’m not — it will have an impact on my inside sales, too,” said Munir Rassiwala, who owns nine gas stations in Virginia.
Youngkin’s amendments also include a provision saying that machines won’t be allowed to be turned on until the Virginia Lottery sets up a system to help track skill games.
Some lawmakers say that could take 18 months — putting business owners in a tough spot financially.
“I run nine different stores,” Rassiwala said. “You can imagine the number of employees. They’re all worried about which one is going to be the one to be let go.”
Youngkin also amended the bill to up the tax rate on profits from skill games from 25% to 35%.
“Why is it that small businesses [are] paying the highest tax on products, goods, or services?” Rassiwala said. “Why is it that the casinos, out-of-state gaming corporations get an 18% tax rate? Why are we being slapped with a 35% tax rate?”
Those who oppose skill games are also reacting to Youngkin’s changes, with a group called Virginians Against Neighborhood Slot Machines releasing the following statement:
“The General Assembly sent Governor Youngkin a bill that would have led to an unprecedented expansion of gambling in Virginia. While we are still reviewing the proposed changes, we thank the Governor and his team for the extensive amount of time and effort put in to come up with a more thoughtful approach.”
The General Assembly will reconvene on April 17th to consider Youngkin’s amendments.
