Casino Chat: Tysons Betting Bill and Community Voices

Let's talk about the Tysons casino buzz! Senator Scott Surovell just put forward Senate Bill 982, aiming to let Fairfax County decide if they want a casino. This isn't new; he's tried before. The county didn't ask for this, though. It's like someone handed them an unwanted birthday present. Some businesses, like Comstock Holding Companies, want it. They've thrown a lot of money at this. Others, like MGM Resorts, don’t. They've also spent a lot to keep it away. This bill now sits before the Senate Committee on General Laws and Technology. They'll talk Wednesdays, right after the morning session. Meanwhile, locals against the casino are planning a lobbying day in Richmond on January 15. They'll bus people down if they register by Monday the 13th. Supervisor Jimmy Bierman isn't a fan. He thinks the casino could mess up the Tysons Plan, which has been great for jobs and housing. He's worried it might turn Tysons into 'The Tysons Strip'. It's like they're trying to turn a successful city corner into a Vegas street.