Updated: Senator VanValkenburg’s (D) bill aims to force planned Henrico gaming facility to face public referendum or lose revenue

February 11, 2025
By: Staff Writer

Originally posted 1/24/25

UPDATED 2/10/25

Editorial Update: Language included as part of the Virginia Senate’s proposed budget for the coming fiscal year would prohibit a planned gaming facility with 175 historical horse racing machines from operating in Henrico County unless it earns public approval through a referendum. This language strengthens the original bill sponsored by Senator Van Valkenberg (D) which would have allowed the facility to operate with a capped potential for revenue unless approved by a referendum.

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Henrico Citizen: Planned Henrico gaming facility could be prohibited from operating without voter approval

Work is ongoing to prepare a Henrico shopping center site for the arrival of a controversial gaming boutique – slated to include as many as 175 historical horse racing machines, a wine bar and live entertainment – but Henrico State Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg (D-16th District) is hopeful that an amendment he has introduced in the Virginia Senate will cause the organization’s parent company to reconsider its plans.

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