Hard Rock Bristol gets license to operate Virginia’s first casino

BRISTOL, Va. (WDBJ) – The Virginia Lottery Board has issued a facility operator’s license to Exhausting Rock Bristol to function Virginia’s first on line casino.

That got here following a “complete overview of utility supplies and an intensive background investigation and a 7-0 vote,” in response to the board.

“Since enacted by the 2020 Common Meeting, the Board’s precedence for on line casino gaming within the Commonwealth is that or not it’s carried out with integrity and in a accountable method,” mentioned Board Chairman Ferhan Hamid. “In the present day’s approval displays the arrogance we’ve within the rigorous and conscientious overview carried out by Virginia Lottery workers.”

“The Virginia Lottery has labored diligently for 2 years to construct the suitable regulatory construction for on line casino gaming,” added Performing Government Director Kelly T. Gee. “I’m pleased with the tireless work by our Gaming Compliance Division and our authorized counsel for conducting the mandatory investigative work to help the Board in its resolution. There are nonetheless many steps to the end line, however there isn’t a doubt that that is an thrilling time.”

The Lottery’s Gaming Compliance Division reviews it’s working with Exhausting Rock Bristol because it prepares to open a brief facility on the positioning of the previous Bristol Mall in early July 2022.

“We shall be on-site on the on line casino over the following couple of months observing the receipt of gaming gear, reviewing inner controls, and guaranteeing full compliance with the laws,” mentioned Virginia Lottery Deputy Government Director of Gaming Compliance Gina M. Smith.

The board additionally voted Wednesday to amend its laws to incorporate casinos within the Voluntary Exclusion Program operated by the Virginia Lottery.

The Lottery continues to be reviewing utility supplies for 3 extra proposed casinos in Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth. Every was accredited by voters in November 2020.

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