Virginia HB 1527 Pushes In-State College Sports Betting

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Published: Mon Feb 02, 2026, 7:00 am ET

Read Time: 3 minutes

Virginia HB 1527 Pushes In-State College Sports Betting

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Virginia lawmakers are again reshaping the state's sports wagering framework through a newly introduced bill.

House Bill 1527 (HB 1527) seeks to expand legal betting options involving in-state college teams. At the same time, the proposal introduces one of the highest tax rates in the country.

Supporters argue the bill modernizes Virginia gambling while generating new public revenue. However, critics warn the proposal could discourage operator participation.

The debate places Virginia at the center of national sports betting policy discussions.

What Is Virginia HB 1527?

HB 1527 would legalize wagering on NCAA Division I college teams located in Virginia. The bill also allows bets on collegiate events held within the Commonwealth. Delegate Michael Feggans introduced the legislation during the 2026 General Assembly session.

Currently, Virginia prohibits bets involving in-state college teams. The restriction applies even when those teams compete in national tournaments.

Under HB 1527, licensed operators could offer expanded collegiate betting markets. However, the bill imposes a 50 percent tax on gross gaming revenue. That rate would be among the highest applied to US online sportsbooks nationwide.

Proponents believe the tax could generate millions for state programs. They argue Virginia already has demand for regulated college betting.

Moreover, even if HB 1527 passes, individual player prop bets would remain prohibited. The bill only allows wagers on game outcomes, including spreads, moneylines, and totals. Supporters say this limitation helps preserve athlete integrity.

Current College Sports Betting Landscape in Virginia

Virginia legalized sports betting in 2020. Since then, the market has grown steadily through mobile wagering.

However, state law restricts betting on Virginia college teams. Bettors cannot place wagers on teams like Virginia Tech or UVA. The limitation frustrates many in-state sports fans.

HB 1527 would significantly change that experience. If enacted, Virginia bettors could wager on local rivalries and tournaments. The bill would align Virginia with states allowing in-state college betting.

Additionally, expanded options may increase overall betting activity. However, operators may reconsider participation due to high taxation.

Some analysts believe the tax rate could limit promotional offers. Others warn reduced competition could impact long-term revenue growth. Still, lawmakers say consumer demand justifies the expansion.

Recent Gambling and Sports Betting Developments in Virginia

Virginia lawmakers have advanced several gambling-related proposals recently. Most notably, legislation establishing a Virginia Gaming Commission is progressing.

Such a commission is essential for HB 1527 to take effect. Without it, expanded oversight would remain fragmented.

Earlier this session, SB 558 merged into SB 195. Both bills aimed to establish a centralized gaming authority. The combined legislation passed unanimously in committee. Lawmakers approved it by a 15-0 vote on January 28. The bill now sits with Finance and Appropriations.

If enacted, the commission would oversee sports betting regulation statewide. That oversight would support enforcement, licensing, and compliance.

Together, these measures signal continued evolution in Virginia gambling policy.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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