Bryan Seeks Merger of Lottery and Casino Control to Streamline Gaming Oversight

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced during his eighth and final State of the Territory Address tonight that he is seeking the Legislature’s support for a proposal to merge the V.I. Lottery and the V.I. Casino Control Commission into a single regulatory entity, arguing that consolidation would streamline oversight, reduce administrative costs, and strengthen how gaming revenues are managed across the territory.

Bryan described the merger as a step toward greater efficiency and consistency in the regulation of gaming activities. “A single, unified regulator means one rulebook, consistent enforcement and lower administrative costs,” the governor said. “It also creates a stable, dedicated revenue stream to support racetrack operations, youth sports and cultural programs.”

At present, gaming oversight in the U.S. Virgin Islands is divided between two separate entities. The Virgin Islands Lottery regulates traditional lottery games and video lottery terminals, with net revenues—after prizes, commissions, and operating expenses—flowing to the Government of the Virgin Islands through the General Fund and other designated purposes, including education, youth initiatives, and community programs.

Casino gaming is overseen by the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission, which regulates revenues generated through casino taxes, licensing fees, and fines. By statute, those funds support a broad range of uses, including regulatory enforcement, public safety, education, youth sports, agriculture, health services, tourism promotion, and racetrack operations.

Under the governor’s proposal, oversight of both lottery and casino gaming would be consolidated under a single regulatory framework. Administration officials say the move would eliminate duplication, improve coordination, and ensure consistent standards across all gaming operations in the territory.

The administration has asked lawmakers to consider legislation enabling the consolidation as part of its ongoing efforts to modernize regulatory structures and reinforce fiscal stability.