“Some First Nations have unlocked greater economic development on reserve lands by opting out of the Indian Act system of lands management in favour of the First Nations Land Management Act. Those First Nations operating within the regime have witnessed a dramatic increase in new businesses, internal investment, and employment opportunities on reserve. These communities also use their revenues to invest back into the community, which in turn strengthens education and employment outcomes and reduces dependence on social programs.”
Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development – Progress Report – June 2014
The First Nations Land Management (FNLM) Regime, enacted in 1999, allows First Nations to opt out of 32 sections of the Indian Act relating to land management. First Nations can then develop their own laws about land use, the environment and natural resources and take advantage of economic development opportunities with their new land management powers.
As of Nov. 25, 2021 there are 194 Framework Agreement signatory First Nations across Canada representing 31.4% of the 617 First Nations.
NOTE:
- Only 3 First Nations – Sliammon, Tsawwassen and Westbank – are currently implementing full Self-Government
- Yukon has already implemented Final and Self-Government Agreements