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S-241At consideration in committee in the Senate

Law Would Change Criminal Code and Laws Affecting Indigenous People

Changes to Criminal Code and Indigenous Laws

Introduced Nov 20, 2025·Last discussed Mar 12, 2026
Summary

There's a proposed law that wants to change two existing laws: the Criminal Code and the Indian Act. The Criminal Code deals with crimes and punishments across Canada. The Indian Act is a law that affects First Nations people and their communities. Because the proposed law is still being discussed, we don't know the exact details of what it would change in either of these laws. Since the proposed law would change the Criminal Code, it could affect anyone in Canada if it changes how crimes are defined or punished. Because it would change the Indian Act, it will definitely affect First Nations people, potentially changing how their communities are governed or how they interact with the Canadian government. This proposed law matters because it could significantly change the lives of both First Nations people and all Canadians. Changes to the Criminal Code could affect how safe we feel and how the justice system works. Changes to the Indian Act could impact the rights and well-being of First Nations communities. It's important to follow its progress to understand how it might affect you or your community.

Where This Lands on Key Issues

Where this proposed law falls on the policy spectrums that Canadians care about

Indigenous PeoplesExpand Indigenous self-governance

The bill includes changes to the Indian Act, suggesting a focus on Indigenous issues. Without specific details, it's reasonable to assume some movement towards reconciliation or addressing specific Indigenous concerns, but not necessarily full self-determination.

Crime & Public SafetyStronger law enforcement

The bill includes changes to the Criminal Code, suggesting a focus on crime and public safety. Without specific details, it's reasonable to assume some movement towards tougher crime measures, but not necessarily a complete shift.

This bill
Bill Quality
Solid

This proposed law lets First Nations run and manage lottery schemes on their reserves, which could bring in money for the community. However, it's not clear how this will work with existing provincial lottery rules, and there could be issues with oversight.

Things to Watch For

  • How will First Nations ensure these lotteries are run fairly and transparently?
  • Will there be limits on the size or type of lotteries allowed?
  • How will provinces and First Nations coordinate to avoid conflicts or overlaps?
  • What happens if a lottery isn't managed properly or causes harm?
  • The law does not specify how revenues from these lotteries will be used or distributed within First Nations communities.
Progress

Click any step to learn what it means

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