// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Assembly to debate bill aimed at banning conversion practices
A bill aimed at banning sexuality and gender conversion practices will be debated by assembly members for the first time at Stormont later on Tuesday.
It contains provisions, external that could see a two-year jail sentence imposed on people who conduct conversion practices.
Alliance's deputy leader Eóin Tennyson proposed the private member's legislation, but it has been criticised by the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) which said the bill "presents a real threat to freedom".
Unionist parties are expected to oppose the bill, but it is believed to have support from Sinn Féin and the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP).
Advocates say the legislation is about protecting LGBT people from harmful attempts to change or suppress who they are.
Critics contend it is a legislative overreach which limits freedom of choice for gay and trans people, and risks criminalising important conversations around sexual orientation and gender.
'They wanted me to repent': Inside the push to ban conversion practices
Jail time and unlimited fines planned under conversion practices ban
Ahead of the debate, Tennyson said Northern Ireland had lagged behind on equality for too long.
"No-one should face coercion, abuse or harm because of who they are or who they love. This is balanced legislation which protects LGBT+ people from harm whilst also upholding freedom of speech and freedom of religion," he added.