The Virginia Lottery Board has announced that it has issued Hard Rock Bristol a gambling facility operator’s license as the race heats up to become the first casino to launch in the state.
Temporary facility could be open as early as July 2022
The board voted 7-0 following what it described as “a comprehensive review of application materials and an extensive background investigation,” to issue the license. This makes Hard Rock the first operator to receive regulatory approval in the state.
In a press release issued by the Lottery, Ferhan Hamid, Virginia Lottery Board Chair said:
“Since enacted by the 2020 general assembly, the board’s priority for casino gaming in the Commonwealth is that it be conducted with integrity and in a responsible manner. Today’s approval reflects the confidence we have in the rigorous and conscientious review conducted by Virginia Lottery staff.”
The release also notes that the Lottery’s gaming compliance department will work with Hard Rock Bristol to help launch a temporary gambling facility that should be open to customers in July of this year.
This temporary facility will feature a full-service casino with around 900 gaming slots, 20 gaming tables, and a retail sportsbook.
Gina Smith, Virginia Lottery Deputy Executive Director of Gaming Compliance said:
“We will be on-site at the casino over the next couple of months observing the receipt of gaming equipment, reviewing internal controls, and ensuring full compliance with the regulations.”
Kelly Gee, Acting Executive Director added:
“The Virginia Lottery has worked diligently for two years to build the appropriate regulatory structure for casino gaming. I am proud of the tireless work by our gaming compliance department and our legal counsel for conducting the necessary investigative work to assist the Board in its decision. There are still many steps to the finish line, but there is no doubt that this is an exciting time.”
There are three other casino developments that are currently seeking regulatory approval in Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth all of which were approved for construction by local voters.
The Lottery has stated that it will continue to review all application materials for the three other developments over the coming months.
An experienced iGaming commentator and analyst based in New York City - Jenny reports on regulation and gambling industry news and events.