Virginia House Subcommittee Advances Poker Age Bill

The ABC/Gaming Subcommittee of the Virginia House of Delegates convened to review legislation concerning gaming regulations. During the session, members considered House Bill 396 sponsored by Delegate Krizek. The bill addresses minimum age requirements for Texas Hold’em poker tournaments.

Chair Torian presided over the meeting as the panel examined a substitute version of the measure. The substitute incorporated updates to the original text. Following discussion, the subcommittee voted to report the substitute with a tally of 19 yea, 1 nay and zero abstentions.

The recorded vote included affirmative support from Delegates Reaser, Callsen, Guzman, Carroll and Franklin along with others such as Morefield, Fowler, Austin and Bloxom. Delegate Knight cast the sole negative vote. This outcome reflects the panel’s decision to move the amended bill forward.

The legislation focuses on provisions that would set an age threshold for participation in such tournaments. Details indicate the rules would apply within designated cities and towns. The subcommittee action represents a procedural step in the legislative process for this gaming-related proposal.

Further context from the meeting showed references to the bill’s intent regarding age verification. The chair confirmed the motion to report had been moved and seconded. The final tally confirmed broad approval among those present.

The substitute version now advances from the subcommittee for additional consideration. This development occurs within the framework of Virginia’s ongoing review of gaming policies. The process highlights standard committee procedures for evaluating proposed changes.

Big changes coming to Virginia gaming and alcohol policy. Catch the latest committee action on poker age limits, charitable gaming rules, and credit card usage in sports betting.#VirginiaPolitics #VApol #GamingLaw #VAGeneralAssembly pic.twitter.com/SAkP0vbXk2

— All Virginia News (@AllVirginiaNews) August 18, 2026