Bill S-268 seeks to amend the Criminal Code of Canada and the Indian Act to place First Nations on equal footing with provinces regarding gaming jurisdiction. It recognizes the Inherent Rights of First Nations to regulate, conduct and manage gaming on and from their lands, empowering First Nations to participate fully in the economic benefits of gaming. The Bill represents a critical step toward addressing systemic inequities and affirming Indigenous sovereignty in economic and governance matters.

Bill S-268 will restore our jurisdiction over gaming. The Host First Nations involved in Indigenous gaming across Canada are rightsholders in advocating for Bill S-268. The Bill will allow First Nations, to take control of their own revenues, to be returned to the community to provide for education, health, welfare, housing and policing and other essential services.

The development of a regulatory framework is currently underway. This framework aims to align Indigenous sovereignty with international gaming standards while demonstrating scalability for both urban and rural gaming operations. By referencing established models, we adapt and contextualize these principles to fit the unique legal and historical landscape of Indigenous sovereignty in Canada. This strategic alignment will position Host First Nations as credible leaders in the gaming industry, capable of meeting international regulatory and investor expectations.

We propose a panel session with the following Chiefs to discuss this important Bill. 

Panelists (To Be Confirmed):

Tsuut'ina Nation (Alberta) – Chief Roy Whitney
Whitecap Dakota Nation (Saskatchewan) – Chief Darcy Bear
Kahnawà:ke Mohawk Territory (Québec) - Grand Chief Cody Diabo

Moderator:

Kihew Consulting & Research Inc. - Edmund Bellegarde