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A broad coalition of Fairfax County civic groups is urging Gov. Abigail Spanberger to veto legislation that could clear the way for a casino in Tysons, citing concerns ranging from traffic and public safety to economic damage and national security risks.
The Tysons Stakeholders Alliance delivered a letter warning that residents would bear the daily consequences of increased congestion, changes to neighborhood character and potential harm to surrounding families.
“Fairfax County is a thriving community built on strong neighborhoods, excellent schools and a high quality of life,” alliance president Paula Martino wrote. “A large-scale casino development would threaten these strengths and alter the character that residents and businesses value.”
The letter was signed by leaders of more than 20 organizations, including the Greater Tysons Citizens Coalition, Reston Community Association, McLean Citizens Association, Rotonda Community Unit Owners Association, No Fairfax Casino Coalition and numerous neighborhood and condominium associations.
The campaign comes as supporters intensify their own appeals to Spanberger. Labor organizations rallied March 25 at the proposed development site near the Spring Hill Metro station, promoting the construction and permanent jobs they say the project would create.
Spanberger can sign the legislation, veto it or recommend changes. Her decision will be one of her first major tests as Virginia’s new governor.
Business and regulatory concerns
The Greater Tysons Citizens Coalition and McLean Citizens Association sent separate letters opposing the legislation in addition to joining the alliance’s appeal.
Coalition chair Sally Horn argued that a casino would harm existing businesses, discourage other companies from moving to Tysons and weaken the area’s contribution to Virginia’s economy.
McLean Citizens Association president Camille White-Partain asked Spanberger to delay any casino expansion until Virginia creates a statewide gaming commission and brings it into operation.
A unified regulator, she wrote, would provide consistent standards, clear authority and stronger oversight. Expanding gambling before those protections exist could create regulatory gaps and weaken public confidence, she said.
Del. Paul Krizek introduced legislation during the General Assembly’s 2026 session to establish a Virginia Gaming Commission overseeing all forms of gambling. The proposal passed the House of Delegates easily but was continued to 2027 by the Senate.
A Senate proposal from Sen. Lashrecse Aird was folded into legislation advanced by Senate President and Finance Committee Chair Louise Lucas. That measure would have assigned gambling oversight to the Virginia Lottery, but it failed in conference negotiations before lawmakers adjourned March 14.
National security group warns of possible risks
National Security Leaders for Fairfax, which represents more than 100 former or retired national security professionals, also contacted Spanberger about the legislation.
The group warned that a Northern Virginia casino could expose national security workers with gambling problems to exploitation by foreign actors.
“Successful recruitment of those entrusted with our most sensitive secrets can lead to the loss of those secrets and harm to our security and sources and methods,” its leaders wrote.
The Northern Virginia Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce requested a veto as well. Board chair Susana Marino said the proposal could undermine Tysons’ established business environment and produce lasting harm to the community.
Bill could trigger a countywide vote
The measure, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, would establish a framework for a possible Fairfax County referendum on casino gaming.
The bill does not identify an operator or specific property. However, Reston Station developer Comstock Companies has lobbied for its passage with the goal of developing an entertainment complex on company-owned land along Leesburg Pike next to the Spring Hill Metro station.
Plans for the currently undeveloped property include a hotel, convention center, concert venue, housing, stores and restaurants alongside a casino.
Fairfax County supervisors have criticized the casino proposal and accused state lawmakers of disregarding local concerns. Depending on the final wording if the bill becomes law, the Board of Supervisors could be required to petition Fairfax County Circuit Court for a referendum after a casino operator is selected.
Spanberger has until April 13 to amend or veto legislation. The General Assembly will reconvene April 22 to consider gubernatorial actions, and the deadline for final action on legislation from the 2026 session is May 25.