Gaming law is generally the law that applies to the gaming or gambling industry, including casinos, lotteries, horse racing, dog racing, sports betting, card games, table games, social gambling, bingo, raffles, slot machines, scratch tickets, etc. Gaming law includes state and federal statutes, rules, and regulations—and legal principles from traditional areas of law, such as contract law, administrative law, constitutional law, criminal law, and regulatory law. For example, the federal statute prohibiting illegal gambling businesses is located at 18 U.S.C. §1955.

In Virginia, gaming law encompasses the regulation of various forms of gambling, including but not limited to casinos, lotteries, horse racing, and recently, sports betting. The Virginia Lottery is responsible for overseeing state-run lotteries, while the Virginia Racing Commission regulates horse racing. Casino gaming is relatively new to Virginia, with legislation passed in 2020 allowing for the construction of casinos in certain cities, subject to voter approval. Sports betting became legal in April 2020, and the Virginia Lottery also regulates this activity. Social gambling among individuals is generally allowed as long as the host does not profit from the event. Charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, is regulated by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. All these activities are subject to both state statutes and federal laws, such as the prohibition of illegal gambling businesses under 18 U.S.C. §1955. It's important for entities and individuals involved in gaming to comply with these regulations to avoid legal repercussions.