The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty applauds the introduction of a new bill to address remaining inequities and band membership provisions of the Indian Act

May 29, 2025 — Ottawa, unceded Anishinaabeg Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada 

Today, the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, announced the introduction of Bill S-2 in the Senate, which addresses some of the remaining inequities in the registration and band membership provisions of the Indian Act.

Bill S-2 replaces former Bill C-38 which was introduced in December of 2022, but did not receive Royal Assent before Parliament was dissolved in March 2025.

The introduction of this Bill early in the current legislative session reiterates the Government of Canada's commitment to reconciliation and to eliminating inequities that continue to impact First Nations individuals and families. 

Bill S-2 proposes amendments in four key areas: enfranchisement, voluntary deregistration, natal band reaffiliation and membership, and the removal of outdated and offensive language related to dependent persons. These changes respond directly to concerns raised by First Nations and individuals impacted by the Indian Act's residual inequities. 

If passed, the legislation would ensure that individuals with family histories of enfranchisement are entitled to registration under the Indian Act and extend entitlement to their descendants.

Bill S-2 continues the legacy of former Bill C-38 which was developed from extensive engagement efforts, including over 50 virtual sessions held with First Nations, Indigenous organizations, and other partners. These discussions were instrumental in shaping the proposed amendments. It is estimated that approximately 3,500 individuals could become newly entitled to registration as a result of the changes in the first five years after it passes.