The Spanish Evangelical Alliance (AEE) has strongly criticized a new bill that could see pastors and counselors imprisoned for helping individuals who seek support to leave a homosexual lifestyle or align their gender identity with their biological sex.

Backed by multiple parties, Spain’s lower house has approved the first stage of an amendment that would make “conversion therapies” illegal, with prison sentences of six months to two years for anyone found offering them, according to a press release from Congress.

The AEE argues that the proposals misrepresent legitimate pastoral care and personal support as harmful “conversion therapy.”

The Alliance stated: “The pattern is repeated: first the concept is distorted… and finally, penalties are imposed with intimidating prison sentences.”

They argued that real pastoral support is not about manipulation: “They only seek to help those who ask for it freely.”

The Alliance also warned that the law would create a double standard—supporting transitions in one direction while punishing those who wish to de-transition: “The regulations impose a moral criterion… some are rewarded and promoted, and others are penalized.”

If passed by the Senate, the bill could result in jail time for pastors, parents, or professionals who offer support to anyone seeking help to change. The AEE says it will continue to stand for conscience and freedom of belief, urging parliamentarians to vote in a way that respects fundamental rights.