A proposed federal bill would require states to receive approval from the U.S. Attorney General before implementing legalized sports wagering.

Some details of the bill were released by Senator Orrin Hatch, a soon-to-retire Republican from Utah, who told GamingCompliance, “I think we would like to pass it. It’s got some real reasons for existence.”

The American Gaming Association, a trade group that represents the casino industry, has maintained all along that states don’t need federal interference in dealing with sports-betting issues. The AGA reacted predictably to Hatch’s proposal.

“Since the Supreme Court’s ruling in May, the American Gaming Association has consistently maintained that federal legislation regarding sports betting is not necessary,” Chris Cylke, vice president of government relations for AGA, said in a statement. “That underlying position remains unchanged.

“At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining an open and constructive dialogue with policymakers considering sports betting legislation at any level of government.”

Democrat Dina Titus, a U.S. Representative from Las Vegas, also expressed concern.

“This draft bill raises serious questions about the treatment of states like Nevada that already successfully regulate sports betting,” Titus told CDC Gaming Reports. “The Supreme Court’s decision overturning PASPA was not an invitation for the federal government to repress states that have led the way. I’ll continue to fight for Nevada’s best interests in these discussions.