76% of Virginia voters oppose legalizing iGaming, according to the results of a poll released this week by the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG).
The survey, conducted by Lake Research Partners from February 19-22, revealed that resistance to iGaming increases as voters learn more about its risks.
The poll found that 76% of voters are opposed to legalizing iGaming after learning about economic and mental health risks seen in other states, with nearly two-thirds (65%) strongly opposed. The opposition spans race, gender, and political affiliation.
“81% of women, 69% of men, 78% of White voters, 68% of Black voters, 75% of Democrats, 76% of Independents, and 77% of Republicans,” according to the poll release.
Additionally, the survey showed that “41% of Virginia voters said that they had never even heard of iGaming until it was defined for them.,” and “62% of voters say they would be less likely to vote for a candidate for the Virginia General Assembly if they voted to legalize iGaming in Virginia.”
The poll results come as the General Assembly considers proposals that would authorize internet casino gaming, often referred to as iGaming, and place it under the authority of the Virginia Lottery Board.
Senate Bill 118 would create a regulated online casino market in Virginia and authorize internet gaming and establish oversight through the Lottery Board, according to the Virginia Legislative Information System bill summary.
A fiscal analysis of SB 118 says the proposal would allow licensed casino operators to run online gaming platforms and would impose a 20% tax on adjusted gross internet gaming revenue.
In the House, House Bill 161 outlines a similar regulatory structure and a 15% tax rate, as described in the House fiscal impact statement.
“A small portion, 5%, of those taxes would be allocated to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund,” reported WTOP on Jan. 12.
