Paul Battle

The meeting covered the election of officers for 2026, including the Chairman and Vice Chairman. Key reports included updates on Gaming Compliance, which involved approving prior minutes and updating the committee charter to reflect new membership. Discussions under the Operations Committee concerned the approval of minutes from September 2025 meetings, charter revisions, and the approval of the internal audit plan. The Director's report highlighted record-breaking financial results for the first half of the fiscal year, with total sales up 18% year-to-date, driven significantly by large Powerball jackpots and strong performance in Pick 3, Pick 4, and Pick 5 games, despite softness in scratcher sales. The growth of the iLottery program, up 31% for the half-year, was also detailed. Gaming compliance discussions included plans for reviewing regulations after the legislative session, efforts to join a national exclusion program to prevent venue-picking by patrons, and emphasizing responsible gaming initiatives as a driver for revenue.

The Virginia Lottery's strategic plan is centered on producing engaging games to generate profits, which are then dedicated to K-12 public education. The strategy is built upon five core values: Collaboration, Customer Focus, Empowerment, Innovation, and Integrity. These values guide all activities to ensure the successful implementation of the Lottery's mission and vision, ultimately aiming to enhance public trust and financial benefits for Virginia's public schools.

This special meeting of the Virginia Lottery Board focused on the application by EPE Casino Resorts Petersburg LLC for a casino license. The Board's duties regarding continuous study of lottery and gaming, including mobile sports betting and casino gambling, were outlined, emphasizing the burden of proof on the applicant concerning character, financial stability, and benefit to the Commonwealth. Representatives from Live Casino Virginia presented details on their temporary facility, including slot machine counts, table games, dining options, and flexible event spaces, noting its impending opening. They also presented extensive renderings and plans for the permanent facility, highlighting its hotel rooms, extensive meeting and convention space, multiple dining concepts (including fine dining and an Asian concept), a garden slot patio, a live poker room, and a planned sportsbook integrated with a restaurant concept. Construction has already commenced on the permanent facility.

The special meeting of the Virginia Lottery Board was convened to address the issuance of a permit for a casino in Virginia, clarifying the roles of the Virginia Lottery and the Virginia Lottery Board. The board discussed its powers and duties related to casino gaming, including issuing permits and licenses, supervising gaming operations, and adopting regulations for casino gaming. The focus was on the application of Golden Eagle Corporation LLC, owned by the Pamunkey Indian tribe, with Boyd Gaming as the manager and developer. Presentations covered the tribe's gaming interests, community support, and the economic benefits of the proposed Norfolk Casino Resort.

The meeting included discussions on the gaming compliance committee report, including a vote on approving the updated charter. The operations committee report was presented, covering minutes ready for approval and updates to the committee charter. An audit plan for fiscal year 26 was also presented. The director's report highlighted financial updates, a vision for the lottery in changing times, and the importance of adapting to new forms of gaming. The board also discussed redefining retail, the Powerball run, jackpot fatigue, technological advancements with AI, and responsible gaming initiatives.