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2025 Session

Budget Amendments - HB1600 (Floor Approved)

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Virginia Gaming Commission (language only)

Item 4-14 #2h

Item 4-14 #2h

Effective Date
Effective Date

Language

Page 732, after line 1, insert:

"16. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a title numbered 29.5, containing a subtitle numbered I, consisting of sections numbered 29.5-100 through 29.5-119:

TITLE 29.5.

GAMING AND WAGERING.

SUBTITLE I.

VIRGINIA GAMING COMMISSION.

CHAPTER 1.

GENERAL PROVISIONS.

§ 29.5-100. Definitions.

As used in this subtitle, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Board" means the Virginia Gaming Commission Board established pursuant to § 29.5-103.

"Commission" means the Virginia Gaming Commission established pursuant to § 29.5-101.

"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the Virginia Gaming Commission appointed pursuant § 29.5-102.

"Executive Secretary" means the Executive Secretary of Racing and Deputy Commissioner of Gaming appointed pursuant to § 29.5-105.

"Racing Commission" means the Virginia Racing Commission established pursuant to § 29.5-602.

§ 29.5-101. Virginia Gaming Commission established.

Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 1 (§ 18.2-325 et seq.) of Chapter 8 of Title 18.2 or any other provision of law, there is hereby established as an independent agency of the Commonwealth, exclusive of the legislative, executive, or judicial branches of government, the Virginia Gaming Commission, which shall include the (i) Virginia Racing Commission established pursuant to § 29.5-602, (ii) Charitable Gaming Advisory Board established pursuant to § 29.5-201, and (iii) Virginia Gaming Commission Board established pursuant to § 29.5-103 and a Commissioner appointed pursuant to § 29.5-102 for the purpose of overseeing all gaming regulatory operations in the Commonwealth, except as otherwise provided in Subtitle II29.5-700 et seq.).

§ 29.5-102. Commissioner appointed; salary; powers and duties.

A. The Commission shall be under the immediate supervision and direction of a Commissioner, who shall be a person of good reputation, particularly as to honesty and integrity, and shall be subject to a thorough background investigation conducted by the Department of State Police prior to appointment. The Commissioner shall possess demonstrated experience and expertise in one or more of the following fields: law, finance, public policy, or management of a significant regulatory enterprise. The Commissioner shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor, subject to confirmation by a majority of the members elected to each house of the General Assembly if in session when the appointment is made, and if not in session, then at its next succeeding session. The Commissioner shall receive a salary as provided in the general appropriation act.

The Commissioner shall devote his full time to the performance of his official duties and shall not be engaged in any other profession or occupation.

Before entering upon the discharge of his duties, the Commissioner shall take an oath that he will faithfully and honestly execute the duties of his office during his continuance therein and shall give bond in such amount as may be fixed by the Governor, conditioned upon the faithful discharge of his duties. The premium on such bond shall be paid out of the Commonwealth Gaming Operations Fund, established pursuant to § 29.5-119.

B. The Commissioner shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Supervise and administer the operation of the Virginia Gaming Commission in accordance with the provisions of this subtitle and with the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this subtitle.

2. Employ such (i) deputy commissioners; (ii) professional, technical, and clerical assistants; and (iii) other qualified personnel as may be required to carry out the functions and duties of the Commission, including (a) an Executive Secretary of Racing and Deputy Commissioner of Gaming, (b) a Deputy Commissioner of Gaming and Regulatory Oversight, (c) a Chief Operating Officer, and (d) all necessary regular and special counsel notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 5 (§ 2.2-500 et seq.) of Title 2.2.

3. Act as secretary and executive officer of the Board.

4. Require bond or other surety satisfactory to the Commissioner from Commission employees with access to Commission funds, in such amount as provided in the rules and regulations of the Board. The Commissioner may also require bond from other employees, as he deems necessary.

5. Confer regularly, but not less than four times each year, with the Board on the operation and oversight of gaming activities regulated by the Commission; make available for inspection by the Board, upon request, all books, records, files, and other information and documents of the Commission; and advise the Board and recommend such matters as he deems necessary and advisable to improve the operation and oversight of gaming activities regulated by the Commission.

6. Suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew any license, permit, or registration issued pursuant to this subtitle or the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this subtitle.

7. Enter into any arrangements with any foreign or domestic governmental agency for the purposes of exchanging information or performing any other act to better ensure the proper conduct of all gaming activities regulated by the Commission pursuant to this subtitle or the efficient conduct of the Commissioner's duties.

8. Participate in the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Advisory Committee established pursuant to § 37.2-304 by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services to enable collaboration among prevention and treatment providers and operators of legal gaming in the Commonwealth on efforts to reduce the negative effects of problem gambling.

C. The Commissioner shall establish the following divisions within the Commission:

1. A Problem Gambling Division for the purpose of coordinating with local, state, and national stakeholders to manage problem gambling research, prevention, recovery, and treatment efforts.

2. An External Affairs and Policy Division for the purpose of communicating with relevant stakeholders in the Commonwealth and recommending gaming policy decisions and legislative proposals to the General Assembly.

3. Any other division necessary to accomplish the goals of this subtitle.

§ 29.5-103. Virginia Gaming Commission Board established; membership; appointment; terms; compensation.

A. There is hereby created the Virginia Gaming Commission Board (the Board) within the Virginia Gaming Commission. The Board shall have a total membership of 11 members that shall consist of nine nonlegislative citizen members and two ex officio members. Members shall be appointed as follows: five nonlegislative citizen members, who shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor, subject to confirmation by a majority of the members elected to each house of the General Assembly if in session when the appointment is made, and if not in session, then at its next succeeding session; two nonlegislative citizen members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates from a list of at least four nominees provided by the Chairman of the House Committee on General Laws; and two nonlegislative citizen members appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules from a list of at least four nominees provided by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on General Laws and Technology. Of the nonlegislative citizen members appointed by the Governor, at least one nonlegislative citizen member shall have experience in criminal investigations and law enforcement, and at least one nonlegislative citizen member shall be a certified public accountant authorized to practice in the Commonwealth or have experience in corporate finance and securities. A current member of the Virginia Racing Commission and the Executive Secretary of Racing and Deputy Commissioner of Gaming, or his designee, shall serve ex officio with nonvoting privileges. Nonlegislative citizen members of the Board shall be individuals of good reputation, particularly as to honesty and integrity, and shall be citizens of the Commonwealth. Consideration shall be given with respect to the political affiliation and the geographic residence of the nonlegislative citizen members prior to their appointment.

B. Ex officio members of the Board shall serve terms coincident with their terms of office. Appointments to fill vacancies, other than by expiration of a term, shall be for the unexpired terms. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointments. All members may be reappointed.

C. After the initial staggering of terms, nonlegislative citizen members shall be appointed for a term of five years. No nonlegislative citizen member shall serve more than two consecutive five-year terms. The remainder of any term to which a member is appointed to fill a vacancy shall not constitute a term in determining the member's eligibility for reappointment.

D. The Board shall elect a chairman and vice-chairman from among its membership. A majority of the members shall constitute a quorum. The meetings of the Board shall be held at the call of the chairman or whenever the majority of the members so request.

E. Members shall receive such compensation for the performance of their duties as provided in § 2.2-2813. All members shall be reimbursed for all reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties as provided in §§ 2.2-2813 and 2.2-2825. Funding for the costs of compensation and expenses of the members shall be provided by the Virginia Gaming Commission.

F. Before entering upon the discharge of their duties, members shall take an oath that they will faithfully and honestly execute the duties of the office during their continuance therein and shall give bond in such amount as may be fixed by the Governor, conditioned upon the faithful discharge of their duties. The premium on such bond shall be paid out of the Commonwealth Gaming Operations Fund, established pursuant to § 29.5-119.

G. No member shall:

1. Have any direct or indirect financial, ownership, or management interest in any gaming activities regulated by the Commission or any agency of the Commonwealth.

2. Receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any gaming activities regulated by the Commission or any agency of the Commonwealth.

3. Have an interest in any contract for the manufacture or sale of gaming devices, the conduct of any gaming activity, or the provision of independent consulting services in connection with any gaming establishment or gaming activity regulated by the Commission or any agency of the Commonwealth.

§ 29.5-104. Powers and duties of the Board.

A. The Board shall have the power to (i) promulgate regulations governing the establishment and operation of charitable gaming, casino gaming, sports betting, and fantasy contests pursuant to Chapter 2 (§ 29.5-200 et seq.) and (ii) oversee the promulgation of regulations governing live horse racing, historical horse racing, and simulcast horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 6 (§ 29.5-600 et seq.). Such regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.). The regulations shall provide for all matters necessary or desirable for the efficient, honest, and economical operation and administration of all forms of gaming regulated by the Board.

B. The Board shall also exercise the following powers and duties, and such others as may be provided by law:

1. Administer a voluntary exclusion program as provided in § 29.5-118.

2. Establish a consumer protection program and publish a consumer protection bill of rights. Such program and bill of rights shall include measures to protect sports bettors, as defined in § 29.5-400, with respect to identity, funds and accounts, consumer complaints, self-exclusion, and any other consumer protection measure the Board determines to be reasonable.

3. Adjust the percentage of uncollectible gaming receivables allowed to be subtracted from adjusted gross revenue, as defined in § 29.5-400, if it determines that a different percentage is reasonable and customary in the sports betting industry.

4. Hear and decide an appeal of any (i) penalty, (ii) denial of a permit or renewal, or (iii) suspension or revocation of a permit imposed by the Commissioner pursuant to Chapter 4 (§ 29.5-400 et seq.).

5. Promulgate regulations for the operation of a sports betting program under the direction of the Commissioner, who shall allow applicants to apply for permits to engage in sports betting operations in the Commonwealth. The Commission shall not operate a sports betting platform or a sports betting facility.

6. Partner with law-enforcement authorities, including the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the Gaming Enforcement Coordinator in the Department of State Police, to address instances of illegal gaming activities in the Commonwealth.

C. The Board shall make policy and legislative recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly related to (i) the regulation of existing legal gaming and wagering, (ii) the expansion of new gaming types, and (iii) the eradication of illegal gaming activity in the Commonwealth.

§ 29.5-105. Executive Secretary of Racing and Deputy Commissioner of Gaming; powers and duties.

A.The Executive Secretary of Racing and Deputy Commissioner of Gaming shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Appoint stewards pursuant to § 29.5-605, with the advice of, in consultation with, and with the consent of the Virginia Racing Commission.

2. Keep a true and full record of all proceedings of the Racing Commission and preserve at the Virginia Gaming Commission's general office all books, documents, and papers of the Racing Commission.

3. Exercise and perform such powers and duties as may be delegated to him by the Commissioner or the Board or as may be conferred or imposed upon him by law.

B. Neither the Executive Secretary nor his spouse nor any member of his immediate family shall make any contributions to a candidate for office or office holder at the local or state level, or cause such a contribution to be made on his behalf.

§ 29.5-106. Deputy Commissioner of Gaming and Regulatory Oversight; powers and duties.

A. The Deputy Commissioner of Gaming and Regulatory Oversight shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Oversee regulation of all gaming activities authorized pursuant to this subtitle;

2. Manage a gaming compliance and audit division for the Commission;

3. Assume responsibility for all gaming licensing and permitting and related investigations;

4. Oversee electronic gaming operations authorized pursuant to this subtitle;

5. Exercise and perform such powers and duties as may be delegated to him by the Commissioner or the Board or as may be conferred or imposed upon him by law.

B. Neither the Deputy Commissioner of Gaming and Regulatory Oversight nor his spouse nor any member of his immediate family shall make any contributions to a candidate for office or office holder at the local or state level, or cause such a contribution to be made on his behalf.

§ 29.5-107. Chief Operating Officer; powers and duties.

A. The Chief Operating Officer shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Oversee and manage human resources, information technology systems, facilities and security, finance and accounting, purchasing, and internal auditing departments within the Commission; and

2. Exercise and perform such powers and duties as may be delegated to him by the Commissioner or the Board or as may be conferred or imposed upon him by law.

B. Neither the Chief Operating Officer nor his spouse nor any member of his immediate family shall make any contributions to a candidate for office or office holder at the local or state level, or cause such a contribution to be made on his behalf.

§ 29.5-108. Financial interests of Board, employees, and family members prohibited.

A. No Board member or employee of the Commission shall (i) be a principal stockholder or (ii) otherwise have any financial interest, direct or indirect, in any licensee or permit holder subject to the provisions of this subtitle. No Board member and no spouse or immediate family member of a Board member shall make any contribution to a candidate for office or officeholder at the local or state level or cause such a contribution to be made on his behalf.

B. No employee of the Commission and no spouse or immediate family member of a Board member shall:

1. Have any direct or indirect financial, ownership, or management interest in any gaming activities regulated by the Commission or any agency of the Commonwealth.

2. Receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any gaming activities regulated by the Commission or any agency of the Commonwealth.

3. Have an interest in any contract for the manufacture or sale of gaming devices, the conduct of any gaming activity, or the provision of independent consulting services in connection with any gaming establishment or gaming activity regulated by the Commission or any agency of the Commonwealth.

§ 29.5-109. Leases and purchases of property by the Board.

The making of leases and the purchasing of real estate by the Board under the provisions of this subtitle are exempt from the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq.). The Commission shall be exempt from the provisions of § 2.2-1149 and from any rules, regulations, and guidelines of the Division of Engineering and Buildings of the Department of General Services in relation to leases of real property into which it enters.

§ 29.5-110. Exemption of Commission from personnel and procurement procedures; information systems; etc.

A. The provisions of the Virginia Personnel Act (§ 2.2-2900 et seq.) and the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq.) shall not apply to the Commission in the exercise of any power conferred under this subtitle, nor shall the provisions of Chapter 20.1 (§ 2.2-2005 et seq.) of Title 2.2 or Article 2 (§ 51.1-1104 et seq.) of Chapter 11 of Title 51.1 apply to the Commission in the exercise of any power conferred under this subtitle.

B. To effect its implementation, the Commission's procurement of goods, services, insurance, and construction and the disposition of surplus materials shall be exempt from:

1. State agency requirements regarding disposition of surplus materials and distribution of proceeds from the sale or recycling of surplus materials under §§ 2.2-1124 and 2.2-1125;

2. The requirement to purchase from the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired under § 2.2-1117; and

3. Any other state statutes, rules, regulations, or requirements relating to the procurement of goods, services, insurance, and construction, including Article 3 (§ 2.2-1109 et seq.) of Chapter 11 of Title 2.2, regarding the duties, responsibilities, and authority of the Division of Purchases and Supply of the Department of General Services, and Article 4 (§ 2.2-1129 et seq.) of Chapter 11 of Title 2.2, regarding the review and the oversight by the Division of Engineering and Buildings of the Department of General Services of contracts for the construction of the Commission's capital projects and construction-related professional services under § 2.2-1132.

C. The Commission (i) may purchase from and participate in all statewide contracts for goods and services, including information technology goods and services; (ii) shall use directly or by integration or interface the Commonwealth's electronic procurement system subject to the terms and conditions agreed upon between the Commission and the Department of General Services; and (iii) shall post on the Department of General Services' central electronic procurement website all Invitations to Bid, Requests for Proposal, sole source award notices, and emergency award notices to ensure visibility and access to the Commission's procurement opportunities on one website.

§ 29.5-111. Assistance from Department of State Police.

The Department of State Police shall assist in the conduct of investigations by the Commission.

§ 29.5-112. Criminal history records check required on certain employees; reimbursement of costs.

All persons hired by the Commission whose job duties involve access to or handling of the Commission's funds shall be subject to a criminal history records check before, and as a condition of, employment.

The Board shall develop policies regarding the employment of persons who have been convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude.

The Department of State Police shall be reimbursed by the Commission for the cost of investigations conducted pursuant to this section.

§ 29.5-113. Employees of the Commission.

Employees of the Commission shall be considered employees of the Commonwealth. Employees of the Commission shall be eligible for membership in the Virginia Retirement System or other retirement plan as authorized by Article 4 (§ 51.1-125 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 51.1 and participation in all health and related insurance and other benefits, including premium conversion and flexible benefits, available to state employees as provided by law. Employees of the Commission shall be employed on such terms and conditions as established by the Board. The Board shall develop and adopt policies and procedures that afford its employees grievance rights, ensure that employment decisions shall be based upon the merit and fitness of applicants, and prohibit discrimination because of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, or disability. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Board shall develop, implement, and administer a paid leave program, which may include annual, personal, and sick leave or any combination thereof. All other leave benefits shall be administered in accordance with Chapter 11 (§ 51.1-1100 et seq.) of Title 51.1, except as otherwise provided in this section.

§ 29.5-114. Liability of Board members; suits by and against Board members.

A. No Board member may be sued civilly for doing or omitting to do any act in the performance of his duties as prescribed by this subtitle, except by the Commonwealth, and then only in the Circuit Court of the City of Richmond. Such proceedings by the Commonwealth shall be instituted and conducted by the Attorney General.

B. The Board may, in the name of the Commonwealth, be sued in the Circuit Court of the City of Richmond to enforce any contract made by it or to recover damages for any breach thereof. The Board may defend the proceedings and may institute proceedings in any court. No such proceedings shall be taken against, or in the names of, the members of the Board.

§ 29.5-115. Counsel for members, agents, and employees of Board.

If any member, agent, or employee of the Board is arrested, indicted, or otherwise prosecuted on any charge arising out of any act committed in the discharge of his official duties, the Board chairman may employ special counsel approved by the Attorney General to defend such member, agent, or employee. The compensation for special counsel employed pursuant to this section shall, subject to the approval of the Attorney General, be paid in the same manner as other expenses incident to the administration of this subtitle are paid.

§ 29.5-116. Hearings; representation by counsel.

Any licensee, permittee, registrant, or applicant for a license, permit, or registration authorized by this subtitle shall have the right to be represented by counsel at any Board hearing for which he has received notice. The licensee, permittee, registrant, or applicant shall not be required to be represented by counsel during such hearing. Any officer or director of a corporation may examine, cross-examine, and question witnesses, present evidence on behalf of the corporation, and draw conclusions and make arguments before the Board or hearing officers without being in violation of the provisions of § 54.1-3904.

§ 29.5-117. Hearings; allowances to witnesses.

Witnesses subpoenaed to appear on behalf of the Board shall be entitled to the same allowance for expenses as witnesses for the Commonwealth in criminal cases in accordance with § 17.1-611. Such allowances shall be paid out of the fund from which other costs incurred by the Board are paid upon certification to the Comptroller.

§ 29.5-118. Voluntary exclusion program.

The Board shall adopt regulations to establish and implement a voluntary exclusion program.

The regulations shall include the following provisions:

1. Except as provided by regulation of the Board, a person who participates in the voluntary exclusion program agrees to refrain from (i) participating in charitable gaming, as defined in § 29.5-200; (ii) engaging in any form of casino gaming authorized under the provisions of Chapter 329.5-300 et seq.); (iii) participating in sports betting, as defined in § 29.5-400; (iv) participating in fantasy contests, as defined in § 29.5-500; (v) participating in pari-mutuel wagering on live horse racing, historical horse racing, or simulcast horse racing authorized pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 6 (§ 29.5-600 et seq.); or (vi) playing any account-based lottery game authorized under the provisions of Subtitle II (§ 29.5-700 et seq.). Any state agency, at the request of the Commission, shall assist in administering the voluntary exclusion program pursuant to the provisions of this section.

2. A person who participates in the voluntary exclusion program may choose an exclusion period of two years, five years, or lifetime.

3. Except as provided by regulation of the Board, a person who participates in the voluntary exclusion program may not petition the Board for removal from the voluntary exclusion program for the duration of his exclusion period.

4. The name of a person participating in the voluntary exclusion program shall be included on a list of excluded persons. The list of persons entering the voluntary exclusion program and the personal information of the participants shall be confidential, with dissemination by the Board limited to any parties the Board deems necessary for purposes of enforcement. The list and the personal information of participants in the voluntary exclusion program shall not be subject to disclosure under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (§ 2.2-3700 et seq.). In addition, the Board may disseminate the list to other parties upon request by the participant and agreement by the Board.

5. Permit holders, as defined in § 29.5-400, and owners and operators of casino gaming establishments shall make all reasonable attempts as determined by the Board to cease all direct marketing efforts to a person participating in the voluntary exclusion program. The voluntary exclusion program shall not preclude permit holders or owners and operators of casino gaming establishments from seeking the payment of a debt incurred by a person before entering the voluntary exclusion program. In addition, any permit holder or owner or operator of a casino gaming establishment may share the names of individuals who self-exclude across its corporate enterprise, including sharing such information with any of its affiliates.

§ 29.5-119. Commonwealth Gaming Operations Fund.

There is hereby created in the state treasury a special nonreverting fund to be known as the Commonwealth Gaming Operations Fund, referred to in this section as "the Fund." The Fund shall be established on the books of the Comptroller. All funds appropriated for such purpose and any gifts, donations, grants, bequests, and other funds received on its behalf shall be paid into the state treasury and credited to the Fund. Interest earned on moneys in the Fund shall remain in the Fund and be credited to it. Any moneys remaining in the Fund, including interest thereon, at the end of each fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund but shall remain in the Fund. Moneys in the Fund shall be used solely to offset the Commission's costs associated with (i) the conduct of investigations required pursuant to any provision of this subtitle and (ii) the enforcement of regulations promulgated by the Virginia Gaming Commission Board pursuant to § 29.5-104. Expenditures and disbursements from the Fund shall be made by the State Treasurer on warrants issued by the Comptroller upon written request signed by the Commissioner.

17. That there shall be established a Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission (the Oversight Commission), which shall consist of 10 members of the General Assembly. Members shall be appointed as follows: six members of the House of Delegates who are members of the House Committee on Appropriations, the House Committee for Courts of Justice, or the House Committee on General Laws to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates in accordance with the principles of proportional representation contained in the Rules of the House of Delegates and four members of the Senate who are members of the Senate Committee on Finance and Appropriations, the Senate Committee for Courts of Justice, or the Senate Committee on General Laws and Technology to be appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules. The Oversight Commission shall elect a chairman and vice-chairman from among its membership; however, the chairman and vice-chairman shall not both be members of the House of Delegates, nor shall both the chairman and vice-chairman be members of the Senate. No recommendation of the Oversight Commission shall be adopted if a majority of the House members or a majority of the Senate members appointed to the Oversight Commission (i) vote against the recommendation and (ii) vote for the recommendation to fail notwithstanding the majority vote of the Oversight Commission. The Oversight Commission shall exercise the function of overseeing the implementation of the provisions of this act and shall convene regularly in the exercise of that function. The Oversight Commission shall expire (a) on July 1, 2026, or (b) upon the appointment of all members to the Virginia Gaming Commission Board, established pursuant to § 29.5-103 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act, and the appointment of a Commissioner to the Virginia Gaming Commission pursuant to § 29.5-102 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act, whichever occurs first. The provisions of this enactment shall become effective in due course.

18. That the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission created pursuant to the third enactment of this act shall report quarterly on its progress to the chairmen of the House Committees on Appropriations and General Laws and the Senate Committees on Finance and Appropriations and General Laws and Technology.

19. That there shall be established a Legislative Transition Executive Committee (the Executive Committee), which shall consist of four members of the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission, to be appointed as follows: two members from the House of Delegates and two members from the Senate to be appointed by the chairman of the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission. The Executive Committee shall function as a work group of the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission and shall meet more frequently than the full membership of the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission for the purpose of making decisions based on the recommendations of the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission and providing direction to the Virginia Lottery in its role as the project management organization overseeing the implementation of the provisions of this act.

20. That the Virginia Lottery shall act as the project management organization to oversee and execute the work of the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission and the Legislative Transition Executive Committee as such bodies exercise their duties and responsibilities pursuant to the third and fifth enactments of this act.

21. That the initial terms of office of those persons appointed to serve as nonlegislative citizen members on the Virginia Gaming Commission Board pursuant to § 29.5-103 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act, shall be staggered as follows: two persons shall be appointed for a term of five years; two persons shall be appointed for a term of four years; three persons shall be appointed for a term of three years; one person shall be appointed for a term of two years; and one person shall be appointed for a term of one year. Thereafter, nonlegislative citizen members of the Virginia Gaming Commission Board shall serve for terms of five years. The provisions of this enactment shall become effective in due course.

22. That the Chief Operating Officer of the Virginia Gaming Commission (the Commission) shall also serve as the Chief Transition Officer of the Commission to lead and coordinate the efforts between relevant state agencies and the Commission with respect to transitioning the oversight and regulation of charitable gaming, casino gaming, sports betting, fantasy sports, and horse racing from such relevant agencies to the Commission. The duties of the Chief Operations Officer that are related to such transition shall expire upon the successful completion of the transition process.

23. That the regulations of the (i) Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services promulgated pursuant to Article 1.1:1 (§ 18.2-340.15 et seq.) of Chapter 8 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia; (ii) Virginia Lottery Board promulgated pursuant to Article 2 (§ 58.1-4030 et seq.) of Chapter 40 and Chapter 41 (§ 58.1-4100 et seq.) of Title 58.1 of the Code of Virginia; and (iii) Virginia Racing Commission pursuant to Chapter 29 (§ 59.1-364 et seq.) of Title 59.1 of the Code of Virginia, as repealed by this act, shall remain in full force and effect until the Virginia Gaming Commission Board promulgates regulations pursuant to this act. Regulations with respect to clause (i) shall be administered by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and regulations with respect to clauses (ii) and (iii) shall be administered by the Virginia Lottery until the Virginia Gaming Commission Board promulgates regulations pursuant to this act. The provisions of this enactment shall become effective in due course.

24. That during the interim period between July 1, 2025, and the formal establishment of the Virginia Gaming Commission (the Commission), established pursuant to § 29.5-101 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act, the Virginia Lottery shall be responsible for conducting all necessary business functions assigned to the Commission pursuant to this act. Formal establishment shall include appointment of the Commissioner of the Commission pursuant to § 29.5-102 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act, and achievement of staffing levels adequate to allow the Commission to independently accomplish such business functions as determined by the Commissioner and the Virginia Gaming Commission Board, established pursuant to § 29.5-103 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act.

25. That in the event that ex officio membership on any board, commission, council, committee, or other body is affected by the provisions of this act, the Governor shall designate an appropriate successor officer, employee, or member of a board or agency established pursuant to the provisions of this act as a replacement.

26. That the Governor may transfer an appropriation or any portion thereof within a state agency established, abolished, or otherwise affected by the provisions of this act, or from one such agency to another, to support the changes in organization or responsibility resulting from or required by the provisions of this act.

27. That any accrued sick leave or annual leave of any employee of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Virginia Lottery, or the Virginia Racing Commission who transfers to the Virginia Gaming Commission in accordance with the provisions of this act shall transfer with the employee.

28. That the Virginia Gaming Commission Board (the Board) shall promulgate regulations to implement the provisions of this act by January 1, 2026; however the Board shall present such regulations to the Virginia Gaming Oversight Commission for review prior to adoption. With the exception of § 2.2-4031 of the Code of Virginia, neither the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia) nor the public participation guidelines adopted pursuant thereto shall apply to the initial adoption of any regulations pursuant to this act. Prior to adopting any regulations pursuant to this act, the Board shall publish in the Virginia Register of Regulations and post on the Virginia Regulatory Town Hall an action that shall provide (i) a 60-day comment period; (ii) a summary of the proposed regulations; (iii) the text of the proposed regulations; (iv) the name, address, email address, and telephone number of the agency contact person responsible for receiving public comments; and (v) the statutory authority to promulgate the regulation. The legislative review provisions of subsections A and B of § 2.2-4014 of the Code of Virginia shall apply to the promulgation or final adoption process for regulations adopted pursuant to this act. The Board shall consider and keep on file all public comments received for any regulations adopted pursuant to this act. The provisions of this enactment shall become effective in due course.

29. That employees of the Virginia Gaming Commission (the Commission) shall be considered employees of the Commonwealth. Employees of the Commission shall be eligible for membership in the Virginia Retirement System or other retirement plan as authorized by Article 4 (§ 51.1-125 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 51.1 of the Code of Virginia and participation in all health and related insurance and other benefits, including premium conversion and flexible benefits, available to state employees as provided by law. Employees of the Commission shall be employed on such terms and conditions as established by the Virginia Gaming Commission Board (the Board). The Board shall develop and adopt policies and procedures that afford its employees grievance rights, ensure that employment decisions are based upon the merit and fitness of applicants, and prohibit discrimination because of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Board shall develop, implement, and administer a paid leave program, which may include annual, personal, and sick leave or any combination thereof. All other leave benefits shall be administered in accordance with Chapter 11 (§ 51.1-1100 et seq.) of Title 51.1 of the Code of Virginia, except as otherwise provided in this enactment.

30. That notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Virginia Gaming Commission (the Commission) shall give preference in hiring to employees of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Virginia Lottery, and the Virginia Racing Commission (relevant state agencies). The Commission shall issue a written notice to all persons whose employment at such relevant state agencies will be transferred to the Commission. The date upon which such written notice is issued shall be referred to herein as the "Option Date." In order to facilitate an orderly and efficient transition and ensure the continuation of operations during the transition from the relevant state agencies to the Commission, the Commission shall have discretion, subject to the time limitations contained herein, to determine the date upon which any employee's employment with the relevant state agencies will end or be transferred to the Commission. This date shall be stated in the written notice and shall be referred to herein as the "Transition Date." No Transition Date shall occur prior to July 1, 2025, without the mutual agreement of the employee and the Commission. No Transition Date shall be set beyond July 1, 2026. Each person whose employment will be transferred to the Commission may, by written request made within 120 days of the Option Date, elect not to become employed by the Commission. Any employee of the relevant state agencies who (i) is not offered the opportunity to transfer to employment by the Commission or (ii) is not offered a position with the Commission for which the employee is qualified or is offered a position that requires relocation or a reduction in salary shall be eligible for the severance benefits conferred by the provisions of the Workforce Transition Act (§ 2.2-3200 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). Any employee who accepts employment with the Commission shall not be considered to be involuntarily separated from state employment and shall not be eligible for the severance benefits conferred by the provisions of the Workforce Transition Act. Any eligibility for such severance benefits shall be contingent on the continued employment through an employee's Transition Date.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, any person whose employment is transferred to the Commission as a result of this act and who is a member of any plan for providing health insurance coverage pursuant to Chapter 28 (§ 2.2-2800 et seq.) of Title 2.2 of the Code of Virginia shall continue to be a member of such health insurance plan under the same terms and conditions as if no transfer had occurred.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, any person whose employment is transferred to the Commission as a result of this act and who is a member of the Virginia Retirement System or other retirement plan as authorized by Article 4 (§ 51.1-125 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 51.1 of the Code of Virginia shall continue to be a member of the Virginia Retirement System or other such authorized retirement plan under the same terms and conditions as if no transfer had occurred.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person whose employment is transferred to the Commission as a result of this act and who was subjected to a criminal history background check as a condition of employment with any of the relevant state agencies shall not be subject to any provisions of this act regarding a criminal history background check, unless the Commission deems otherwise.

31. That the Virginia Gaming Commission (the Commission) shall conduct a review of all technology systems inherited from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Virginia Lottery, and the Virginia Racing Commission for the purpose of increasing efficiency in core functions through the reduction of manual processes and standardizing similar processes, such as licensing, auditing, and case management, across the different types of gaming that are overseen and regulated by the Commission.

32. Pursuant to § 30-19.1:4, the estimated amount of the necessary appropriation is $0 for periods of imprisonment in state adult correctional facilities and cannot be determined for periods of commitment to the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice."



Explanation

(This amendment amends the Code of Virginia to establish the Virginia Gaming Commission as an independent agency of the Commonwealth.)