Virginia lawmakers are evaluating whether credit cards should continue to be allowed for online sports wagering. House Bill 515, introduced by Delegate Marty Martinez, proposes removing credit cards from the list of approved deposit and withdrawal methods for state-licensed sportsbooks.
Currently, Virginia’s sports betting framework permits users to fund accounts using debit cards, credit cards, wire transfers, automated clearinghouse payments, or any method authorized by the Virginia Lottery director. If HB 515 becomes law, the lottery regulator would lose the authority to permit credit card use for online sports betting. The bill is now pending referral to a committee for further discussion.
Concerns Over Financial Risk and Problem Gambling
Although Martinez’s bill does not specify a reason for the proposed ban, concerns raised in other states and at the federal level have centered on potential problem gambling, financial instability, and the risk of consumers accumulating debt. Several states—including Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut, and Tennessee—already limit credit card use in gambling, while others have debated similar measures.
Last year, the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) prohibited credit cards for online sports betting, effective from November. In addition, lawmakers proposed legislation to bar credit card use for purchasing lottery tickets or cash advances at brick-and-mortar casinos.
Private operators have also taken action. DraftKings voluntarily stopped accepting credit card payments across the U.S. in mid-2025, citing consumer protection and financial risk concerns.
The National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) has advised against allowing credit cards as a funding method for online gambling. Its draft model legislation, released at the end of 2024, recommended that no state permit deposits or withdrawals using credit cards.
However, the approach has drawn criticism. Former New Jersey Gaming Enforcement Director David Rebuck argued during a public hearing that a credit card ban “is not supportedby evidence and research today.”New Hampshire Senator Tim Lang warned that attaching a credit card restriction to an expansion of online gambling could be “political suicide.”
Multiple Gambling Proposals on Virginia’s 2026 Agenda
HB 515 is one of several gambling-related bills under consideration in Virginia this year. Delegate Marcus Simon is advocating for the legalization of online casinos, proposing that iGaming fall under the Virginia Lottery and be taxed at 15%. His bill would allow each brick-and-mortar casino to operate up to three online casino “skins” while excluding online sweepstakes casinos.
Separately, Delegate Paul Krizek has introduced HB 271, which seeks to create a Virginia Gaming Commission. The new agency would assume regulatory authority over sports betting and casino gaming, replacing the lottery. It would also oversee charitable gaming and daily fantasy sports currently regulated by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Virginia faces a busy 2026 legislative session on gambling, balancing industry growth with concerns over consumer protection, debt, and regulatory oversight.
Source:
“Virginia may consider banning credit cards for sports betting”, sbcamericas.com, January 16, 2026
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