POSITION REPORT ON OPPOSITION TO THE TYSONS CASINO
As Max Fisher, a candidate for Virginia House of Delegates, I stand with the community in expressing opposition to the proposed casino in the suburbs of Fairfax County. Despite falling outside the 8th District, it is crucial to highlight the potential consequences for the broader community.
The history of Senate Bill 675 (SB675) is a telling one. Introduced by Virginia Senator Dave Marsden, this bill sought to establish a casino somewhere on Metro’s Silver Line outside the Capital Beltway. It represents the third attempt by Senator Marsden to introduce such a bill. The first two attempts in 2023, co-introduced with Delegate Wren Williams, were quickly withdrawn due to strong community opposition. The most recent bill, submitted in January 2024, was held over to the 2025 legislative session after a 13-2 vote by the Senate Committee on Finance and Appropriations. Despite the procedural setback, Senator Marsden plans to introduce a similar bill in 2025.
My reasons for standing with the community against this bill include:
1. Disruption of Community Character: A casino would significantly alter the suburban, family-friendly environment of Fairfax County.
2. Increase in Crime: History shows a correlation between the presence of casinos and a rise in crime rates.
3. Traffic and Infrastructure Strain: A casino would attract additional traffic, leading to increased congestion and strain on local infrastructure.
4. Economic Displacement: While casinos can generate revenue, they often negatively impact local businesses.
5. Increase in Gambling Addiction: The presence of a casino could lead to a rise in gambling addiction, causing financial and social harm to individuals and families.
As a candidate for the House of Delegates, I believe our role in this issue is essential for the following reasons:
1. Representation: Our duty is to represent the views and interests of our constituents. As there is strong opposition to this proposal, it is our responsibility to ensure these voices are heard at the state level.
2. Legislation: We have the ability to create, amend, and vote on legislation that directly impacts our community. We need to use this power to safeguard our community from potential harm.
3. Advocacy: Our position provides a platform to advocate for our community's best interests, promoting initiatives that enhance the community's character and economic growth without the negative impacts associated with a casino.
In conclusion, while SB675’s aim to boost economic growth is understood, it is my belief that the potential negative impacts outweigh the potential benefits. We must focus on initiatives that not only stimulate economic growth, but also preserve the character, safety, and well-being of our community. We need to keep a close eye on this issue further in the upcoming legislative session in Richmond.
As Max Fisher, a candidate for Virginia House of Delegates, I stand with the community in expressing opposition to the proposed casino in the suburbs of Fairfax County. Despite falling outside the 8th District, it is crucial to highlight the potential consequences for the broader community.
The history of Senate Bill 675 (SB675) is a telling one. Introduced by Virginia Senator Dave Marsden, this bill sought to establish a casino somewhere on Metro’s Silver Line outside the Capital Beltway. It represents the third attempt by Senator Marsden to introduce such a bill. The first two attempts in 2023, co-introduced with Delegate Wren Williams, were quickly withdrawn due to strong community opposition. The most recent bill, submitted in January 2024, was held over to the 2025 legislative session after a 13-2 vote by the Senate Committee on Finance and Appropriations. Despite the procedural setback, Senator Marsden plans to introduce a similar bill in 2025.
My reasons for standing with the community against this bill include:
1. Disruption of Community Character: A casino would significantly alter the suburban, family-friendly environment of Fairfax County.
2. Increase in Crime: History shows a correlation between the presence of casinos and a rise in crime rates.
3. Traffic and Infrastructure Strain: A casino would attract additional traffic, leading to increased congestion and strain on local infrastructure.
4. Economic Displacement: While casinos can generate revenue, they often negatively impact local businesses.
5. Increase in Gambling Addiction: The presence of a casino could lead to a rise in gambling addiction, causing financial and social harm to individuals and families.
As a candidate for the House of Delegates, I believe our role in this issue is essential for the following reasons:
1. Representation: Our duty is to represent the views and interests of our constituents. As there is strong opposition to this proposal, it is our responsibility to ensure these voices are heard at the state level.
2. Legislation: We have the ability to create, amend, and vote on legislation that directly impacts our community. We need to use this power to safeguard our community from potential harm.
3. Advocacy: Our position provides a platform to advocate for our community's best interests, promoting initiatives that enhance the community's character and economic growth without the negative impacts associated with a casino.
In conclusion, while SB675’s aim to boost economic growth is understood, it is my belief that the potential negative impacts outweigh the potential benefits. We must focus on initiatives that not only stimulate economic growth, but also preserve the character, safety, and well-being of our community. We need to keep a close eye on this issue further in the upcoming legislative session in Richmond.