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Subcommittee advances bill to speed and modernize casino employee permits

Subcommittee on ABC and Gaming · January 28, 2026

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Summary

HB 218 would set a 30 business‑day timeline for casino service permit decisions, allow applicants a narrative and character references, and narrow background checks to recent history; the subcommittee reported the bill 9–0 after supporters from workforce and casino employers testified.

Delegate McQueen introduced HB 218 as a workforce‑focused bill to modernize the service permit process for casino gaming employees. "House Bill 218 modernizes the service permit process for casino gaming employees," the sponsor said, framing the change as ensuring a fair, timely process without lowering standards.

Supporters included Clovia Lawrence of NextGen Business Enterprises, who said the bill would "put Virginians back to work with honesty, dignity, and respect" and help reduce recidivism by opening employment opportunities. Ann Lee Kerr, representing Caesars Virginia, said the resort employs more than 1,200 people in Danville and supported the bill to provide flexibility in finding qualified employees while maintaining gaming integrity.

After public testimony and a committee motion, the subcommittee voted to report HB 218 by a recorded vote of 9 to 0, advancing it to the next stage of consideration.