A new bill, S-2, has been presented to the Senate by the Minister of aboriginal Services, Mandy Gull-Masty. The bill seeks to rectify long-standing inequalities in the acknowledgement of indigenous identity and the rights associated with it.

S-2 replaces bill C-38, which had previously passed its first reading in the House of Commons in December 2022. However, C-38 did not receive royal assent before Parliament was dissolved in March 2025.

The proposed changes in the new bill address key issues such as the process for obtaining Indian status and the ability to pass that status on to future generations.

The previous bill, C-38, was developed following extensive consultations, including over 50 virtual sessions with First Nations and Aboriginal organizations.

Mandy gull-masty, Minister of Aboriginal Services, stated, As a Minister of Aboriginal Services, I take responsibility very seriously that inspires me to eliminate inequalities based on sex and inherited from colonialism in the Indian Act.

Minister Gull-Masty also noted, Today, we take an vital step towards the adoption of long -term changes that continue to reach First Nations members and their families.

Government Anticipates Thousands Will Gain Status

This is one of the first bills proposed by the government,as we understand the urgency of these measures for the persons concerned.

The Government estimates that the changes introduced by the bill could lead to approximately 3,500 people becoming eligible for registration within the first five years of its implementation.