Should Budget Bill C-15 Change How Indigenous Tax Powers Work?

Official title: The subject matter of Part 4 and those elements contained in Division 35 of Part 5 of Bill C-15, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on November 4, 2025

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The Senate is studying parts of the federal budget bill that affect Indigenous peoples. Part 4 and Division 35 of Part 5 deal with Indigenous tax powers and modern treaty implementation. The committee is hearing from First Nations leaders, government officials, and legal experts about how these changes would work.

Why This Matters

This affects how First Nations can collect taxes and manage their own finances. If you're Indigenous, these changes could affect services in your community. Even if you're not, this shapes how Canada honours its treaty obligations.

What Could Change

The First Nations Tax Commission could get new powers. GST/HST rules for Indigenous governments may change. Modern treaty implementation processes could be updated. These changes would be part of the budget bill, meaning they'd take effect once the bill passes.

Key Issues

  • How should Indigenous tax powers be expanded or modified?
  • How will modern treaty implementation be affected?
  • What role should the First Nations Tax Commission play?

How to Participate

  1. Watch the committee meetings to understand the issues being discussed.
  2. Review the briefs and documents submitted by witnesses.
  3. Contact your Senator to share your views on Bill C-15's Indigenous provisions.

Events

Date Event Location
December 9, 2025 9:00 AM ET Committee Meeting - Bill C-15 Study Virtual View Details →
December 10, 2025 6:45 PM ET Committee Meeting - Bill C-15 Study Virtual View Details →

Key Documents