The introduction of gender quotas in Welsh elections “could lead to legal challenges”, according to a new report.
Politicians say these challenges could upset the outcome of the next Senedd election.
The cross-party Reform Bill Committee says the Welsh Government must act.
The bill being considered would only change the rules when it comes to elections to the Senedd (Welsh parliament).
The next vote to choose representatives in Cardiff Bay is scheduled to take place in May 2026.
If approved, the changes would take effect before that vote.
The aim of the proposals is to increase the number of women standing for election to the Senedd.
Applicants will have to provide a declaration to confirm whether they are women or not.
But concerns have been raised that this requirement could be subject to abuse.
Reform Bill Committee chairman David Rees said he and his colleagues had “heard concerns” along these lines.
“To alleviate these concerns, we call on the government to include this statement in the corrupt practice offense that applies to other false information on nomination forms,” he added.
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The committee makes a total of 25 recommendations, including ensuring that there is “no doubt” the Senedd has the capacity to pass the law.
But Rees said the entire committee agreed the Senedd needed to “better reflect the people it serves”.
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A Welsh Government spokesperson thanked the commission for its report.
“We are grateful to members of the Reform, Legislation, Justice and Constitution and Finance Committees for their consideration of the Senedd Cymru (Electoral Candidate Lists) Bill,” they said.
“Having received reports from both the Law Reform and Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committees, we will now consider their recommendations in detail.”
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