(Richmond, Va.) (AP) — A bipartisan group of state lawmakers say three struggling Virginia cities urgently need casinos to help revive their economies.

Republican Sen. Bill Carrico and Democrat Sen. Louise Lucas led a Monday news conference where they touted legislation to allow Danville, Bristol and Portsmouth to build casinos if local voters approve referendums.

Del. Danny Marshall supports the legislation and says passage by the General Assembly would give voters the final say on whether they want a casino in Danville.

Virginia is one of a handful of states that forbids casino gambling, but lawmakers have appeared more open to changing the law in recent years.

Legislators are also considering whether Virginia should offer sports wagering.

Gov. Ralph Northam is pushing for a yearlong study of gambling-related legislation, but supporters of gambling-related bills say there’s no need to wait.

If the legislation is approved and becomes law on July first, supporters say it’s possible Danville could see a local referendum in November.

The Pamunkey Indian Tribe is also pushing to build a casino in Norfolk, a potential rival to the planned Portsmouth casino.