Six Virginia senators who voted for a casino bill received a share of $39,000 in donations from the potential developer. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
A Fairfax County developer hopes to build a new casino in Virginia and is pushing for a bill to help make the project a reality.
Eight of the committee members received a share of $51,000
Ten lawmakers on the Senate General Laws and Technology Committee supported the plan on Wednesday. Eight of the committee members received a share of $51,000 from Comstock Holding Companies since the start of 2023, with six people who supported the bill receiving $39,000. The developer has full rights to make these donations.
The next step for Senate Bill 675 (SB675) is a hearing in the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee following the 10-4-1 vote.
Two senators who received donations from the developer opposed the proposal. Committee Chairman Sen. Adam Ebbin, who received $10,000, questioned the lack of support from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors so far, as other similar casino bills have had this type of support. Senator Christopher Head received a $2,000 donation and also voted against the plan.
Comstock first presented his casino idea in September 2023. SB 657 aims to add Fairfax County to the list of areas in the state that can host a casino.
