MADRID (AP) — Spain’s former King Juan Carlos lost his immunity when he gave up his crown, but is taking a step toward regaining legal protection against lawsuits.

An amendment passed Thursday by Spain’s lower house of parliament means any legal case involving him must be examined by the Supreme Court, which has a higher threshold for evidence.

Members of government and many judicial figures enjoy the same protection.

On abdicating to his son Felipe last week, Juan Carlos, 76, lost the legal immunity he had enjoyed since becoming king in 1975.

That immunity stopped two lawsuits in 2012 seeking paternity tests.

Former Queen Sofia and other members of the royal family are also covered by the measure, which will take effect with nearly certain final approval by in the Senate in July.

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