MGM Resorts International invested over $755,000 in lobbying efforts to oppose both a potential Northern Virginia casino and controversial skill gaming machines in the commonwealth. These efforts primarily focused on two main initiatives.

The company's spending included nearly $500,000 for public relations efforts against a proposed Tysons casino and over $222,000 for Richmond-based lobbyists. This opposition targeted state Sen. David Marsden's (D-Fairfax) legislation that would have allowed a casino in Tysons, as well as Senate Bill 212 regarding skill gaming machines.

The Tysons casino proposal faced significant opposition from multiple groups, including:

• Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
• Local homeowners associations
• Municipal governments
• Over 100 former CIA and intelligence community officials

MGM's efforts also opposed skill gaming legislation, which Gov. Glenn Youngkin ultimately vetoed after the General Assembly rejected his proposed modifications, including:

• 35-mile buffer zones from existing gaming facilities
• Half-mile restriction from churches and daycares

MGM's investment in opposing Virginia gaming expansion appears strategic, given MGM National Harbor's significance:

• Second-largest MGM gaming floor outside Macau (159,000 square feet)
• 2,500 slots and 160 live dealer tables
• $825 million in gross gaming revenue (2023)
• Second-highest earning casino outside Las Vegas
• 308-room hotel facility

The property's strong performance makes it a crucial asset in MGM's portfolio, helping explain the company's substantial investment in protecting its market position.

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