Former president Yahya Jammeh banned the practice in 2015 and introduced steep fines and jail sentences for perpetrators.
However, many Gambians still believe that FGM is a requirement of Islam and the bill -- introduced by lawmaker Almameh Gibba -- argues that the current ban violates citizens' rights to practice their culture and religion.
The bill has divided public opinion. Anti-FGM advocates point to the harmful physical and psychological effects of the practice on girls and women and say a lifting of the ban would be a huge step back.
The practice has no health benefits and can lead to a host of serious medical problems, according to the World Health Organization.
The second reading of the bill is scheduled for March 18.
(Reporting by Pap Saine; Writing by Anait Miridzhanian; Editing by Portia Crowe and Christina Fincher)
