India, March 17 -- A political firestorm is unfolding in Northern Virginia after state lawmakers pushed through legislation that could pave the way for a controversial casino project in Fairfax County, setting off a fierce clash between economic ambition and democratic accountability.

The bill, known as Senate Bill 756, has now landed on the desk of the governor, who faces mounting pressure from both sides, supporters touting millions in projected revenue and opponents warning of a dangerous erosion of local control.

At the heart of the dispute is not just the prospect of a casino, but the question of who gets to decide its fate.

A Bill That Ignited a Political Feud The Virginia General Assembly approved the legislation after weeks of...