Governor Youngkin Signs SB836 Into Law, Tackles Gambling Addiction Alongside Reeves and Krizek

RICHMOND, VA – April 17th, 2023 – Today, Governor Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) and Senator Bryce Reeves (R-Spotsylvania) announced the signing of SB836, a bill that goes into effect July 1st of this year. SB836 will establish the Virginia Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Advisory Committee, with the goal of preventing gambling addiction and providing resources to individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Delegate Paul Krizek (D-Mount Vernon) carried and passed HB1465 in the House of Delegates, an identical piece of legislation.

Virginia has recently seen a rise in youth gambling rates, with the 2021 VA Youth Survey claiming that nearly ¼ of Virginia high-schoolers had gambled within the past year and that nearly ⅔ of young Virginians aged 18-25 had gambled within the past month.  Research shows that individuals who gamble in their teens are significantly more likely to develop a gambling problem later in life.

“I greatly appreciate Governor Youngkin’s support in this endeavor.”, said Reeves. “As a father, it pains me to see how our youth have been affected by gambling and all the ills that come with it. The Virginia Problem Gambling Hotline has seen a 143% increase in calls over the last few years, which I feel is deeply representative of this growing issue. I look forward to the committee’s establishment this July and the progress they will make in ensuring Virginians are given the knowledge, tools, and abilities to prevent and overcome gambling addiction.”

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Bryce Reeves is a small business owner, former Army Ranger, and former Prince William County narcotics detective. Senator Reeves is running for re-election into the newly formed 28th Senate District. The counties within this district include: Orange, Culpeper, Madison, Greene, Rappahannock, Fauquier (part), and Spotsylvania (part). Senator Reeves currently serves on the Senate Committee on Rehabilitation and Social Services and sits on the Committees on Local Government, General Laws and Technology, and Privileges and Elections. In addition, Senator Reeves is the Co-chair of the Virginia General Assembly Military and Veterans Caucus. Senator Reeves resides in Spotsylvania County.