Labor groups convened in Northern Virginia to urge Gov. Abigail Spanberger to sign legislation allowing Fairfax County voters to decide on a proposed casino in Tysons. The rally occurred on a vacant lot near the Spring Hill Metro station, the site of a planned entertainment complex.
The focus was on Senate Bill 756, approved by the Virginia General Assembly on March 14. The bill would let the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors hold a referendum, enabling residents to decide if the casino should be part of a larger development plan.
**Labor Groups Stress Jobs and Economic Benefits**
Union leaders emphasized the proposal’s economic potential beyond gaming, including plans for a hotel, convention center, concert venue, housing, and retail alongside the casino.
“There’s a lot of misinformation that basically has identified this whole project as just being one casino,” said Virginia Diamond, president of the Northern Virginia Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. “It’s very important for people to know that this is an entire entertainment district, of which 5 percent would be a gaming floor inside a luxury hotel.”
Supporters claim the project could create around 5,000 jobs, including 2,000 construction roles and 3,000 permanent hospitality positions, offering better wages and benefits for local workers.
“Fairfax residents deserve to have good jobs with livable wages and reliable benefits that are close to home,” said Kassa Emebet Samuel of UNITE HERE Local 25.
Union members shared personal experiences to highlight the issue. “As a union electrician, I and most of my sister and brother electricians, have to travel to jobs outside of Fairfax, spending hours commuting and away from our families,” said Maria Zoraya Silva. “Any job can be a good job with a union.”
Other workers echoed the sentiment, describing union jobs as a stable path forward. Nelson Aguilar, a carpenter, said such jobs provide a “path to the middle class,” adding, “The union gives us a voice on the job and protects our rights.”
**Political Debate and Local Resistance**
Despite union support, the proposal faces opposition from local officials and community groups. Fairfax County leaders have publicly opposed casino gambling, noting the county did not request state authorization.
“We did not ask for a casino. We do not want it,” said Fairfax County Supervisor Walter Alcorn.
Gov. Spanberger has not announced her decision, expressing caution about expanding gaming in Virginia, with concerns about oversight crucial to her stance. “Governor Spanberger is deeply concerned about any discussions of gaming expansion in Virginia without first establishing a single entity with clear authority, consistent standards, and strong compliance and enforcement capabilities,” said Katie Frazier, the governor’s Agriculture and Forestry secretary.
The legislature did not establish a new gaming regulatory body, leaving oversight to the Virginia Lottery Board. Spanberger has until April 13 to decide, with options to sign, veto, or amend.
Opposition highlights potential downsides, such as increased traffic, safety concerns, and uncertain financial returns. A draft county-commissioned study suggested projected tax revenues might fall short of estimates by supporters.
**Development Plans and Next Steps**
The proposed development, led by Comstock Holding Companies, would occupy a site near Leesburg Pike, formerly an auto dealership. Although the legislation doesn’t specify an operator or location, Tysons is a leading candidate.
Backers argue the project could boost public finances, with Fairfax County potentially receiving $150 million in tax revenue and the state between $56 million and $110 million annually.
Education advocates support the revenue link to school funding. “Labor is presenting an alternative to raise revenues and support Fairfax’s working families and schools,” said Emily VanDerhoff of the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers.
Major casino operators, including Wynn Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, are interested in the developments and could pursue involvement if the legislation passes.
For now, union leaders continue urging the governor to sign the bill. “Together with one voice, we ask you: sign the bill,” said Mike Via of Operating Engineers Local 99. “Stand with the workers and let’s get to work.”
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com