Paid for by Virginians Against Neighborhood Slot Machines
ICYMI – New Poll Shows Virginians Overwhelmingly Oppose The Illegal Onslaught Of “Skill” Games
A poll released today by the American Gaming Association found opposition to illegal so-called skill games at an all-time high, with 67 percent of Virginia voters reporting opposition to “skill” games in bars, restaurants, convenience stores and gas stations that fail to employ reasonable consumer and community protections.
Once again, voters have made themselves clear: deceptive neighborhood slots should stay OUT of Virginia. Lawmakers should uphold the existing ban and reject any attempts to legalize these dangerous machines in the Commonwealth.
See the full release from the American Gaming Association below.
Read the full polling memo here.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2025
CONTACT
Dara Cohen
NEW POLL: Virginians Overwhelmingly Oppose Proliferation of “Skill” Games
Two-thirds of Virginia voters oppose legalizing “skill” game machines
WASHINGTON, D.C. — According to recent polling conducted by Global Strategy Group on behalf of the American Gaming Association (AGA), Virginians strongly reject the expansion of so‑called “skill” games into convenience stores, restaurants, gas stations and other non‑casino locations across the Commonwealth.
More than two-thirds (67%) of voters say they oppose “skill” games in bars, restaurants, grocery stores and gas stations that lack the necessary and reasonable consumer and community protections that Virginia’s regulated casino industry affords. Opposition is broad and bipartisan, with 67% of Democrats, 71% of independents and 65% of Republicans opposing legalization, as well as 50% of self‑reported gamblers.
“Virginians recognize the dangers so-called ‘skill’ games pose to their communities and overwhelmingly reject the notion of broader legalization of these machines,” said Tres York, Vice President, State Government Relations.
“As Virginia lawmakers begin to shape their policy objectives ahead of next year, they would be wise to heed voters’ concerns and reject efforts that support the expansion of these devices in neighborhoods across the Commonwealth.”
Voters also cite worries about the predatory nature of “skill” gaming – expressing concern that the placement of these devices in at-risk communities is taking advantage of those who can least afford it.
Read the full polling memo attached or by clicking here.
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About the AGA
As the national trade group representing the U.S. casino industry, the American Gaming Association (AGA) fosters a policy and business environment where legal, regulated gaming thrives. The AGA’s diverse membership of commercial and tribal casino operators, sports betting and iGaming companies, gaming suppliers, and more lead the $329 billion industry and support 1.8 million jobs across the country.