Three northern Virginia lawmakers will be introducing different bills that would legalize sports gambling in the state.
The proposals from Democrats Chap Petersen, Mark Sickles and Marcus Simon differ in some details, but all seek to capitalize on a U.S. Supreme Court decision earlier this year that opened the door for states other than Nevada to open sportsbooks.
The proposals differ on whether mobile gambling would be allowed. All contain at least some restrictions for gambling on collegiate sports. Some require local approval, while others do not.
The Family Foundation, a conservative lobbying group, says it will oppose any legalization of sports wagering.
Virginia's 45-day legislative session begins in January.
Earlier this month, the D.C. Council gave final approval to allow online sports betting in the District, positioning the city to become the first jurisdiction in the region to have betting at sports venues as well as through online apps.
According to D.C. Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey DeWitt, sports betting could bring in as much as $92 million over the next four years to the D.C. government.
