The first legal online casinos launched in the state in July 2020. West Virginia became the fifth US state to legalize online gambling when HB 2934 passed the State House in February 2019. That building is owned by the Charleston Urban Renewal Authority and its officials said they would consider such a proposal if it becomes a legitimate possibility.Įyewitness News reached out to Hull Property Group, the mall's owners, for comment but did not receive a response.This is a list of casinos in West Virginia. One of the locations considered is the former Macy's building at the mall. Voters in that county would have the chance to weigh in on the ballot. If Senate Bill 100 would be signed into law, the West Virginia Lottery Commission would then need to approve a location.

'I think this has the possibility of being a winner as it relates to the mall and to the city of Charleston to a degree,' Cavacini said. West Virginia Gaming and Racing Association President John Cavacini said the race tracks in the state are neutral on the idea, but he supports the satellite casino bill. 'I think also that it could be a catalyst for more crime.' 'The targeted market of Eastern Kanawha County, where you have people on low income and fixed income, suggests to me that this is a net loser for everyone,' Swint said. Swint believes that putting a casino in the mall would be a poor decision. It could help to diversify, bring some economic development and job growth.'Ĭharleston property broker Howard Swint opposes the bill. 'When you look at our mall right now, the vacancy that we have and the opportunity to bring in another tenant, a casino has a lot of benefits there. 'It could be anywhere in Kanawha County,' Nelson said. Nelson believes the Charleston Town Center could be a viable spot for a casino. It only applies to Ohio, Hancock, Jefferson and Kanawha counties, where casinos are already located. Eric Nelson, R-Kanawha, revived the satellite casino bill. It's almost the same bill as one that died in the Senate in 2019. (WCHS) - West Virginia senators passed SB 100 this week that would allow existing casinos to open a second location in the same county.

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