The ABC-Gaming Subcommittee of Virginia made significant strides in regulating fantasy sports and poker tournaments during its meeting on January 28, 2025. The committee unanimously approved two key pieces of legislation aimed at raising the minimum age for participation in these activities.

House Bill 2166 was reported with an 8-0 vote, signaling strong support among committee members. This bill is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding gaming in Virginia.

The more notable discussion centered on House Bill 2493, which proposes to increase the minimum age for participating in online fantasy sports contests and Texas Hold'em poker tournaments from 18 to 21. This change aligns Virginia's regulations with national trends, as 33 states already enforce a minimum age of 21 for these activities. The bill aims to create consistency across different forms of gambling, as the legal age for casino gambling is also set at 21.

During the meeting, representatives from the Sports Betting Alliance expressed their support for the age increase but raised concerns about illegal activities within daily fantasy sports operations. They highlighted the need for further examination of these issues to ensure a fair and safe gaming environment.

Following discussions, the committee moved to report House Bill 2493, which also passed with an 8-0 vote. This decision reflects a commitment to protecting younger individuals from potential gambling-related harms while aligning state laws with broader national standards.

The passage of these bills marks a significant step in Virginia's approach to gaming regulation, with implications for both participants and operators in the industry. As these measures move forward, they are expected to enhance the integrity of gaming activities in the state and ensure a safer environment for all involved.