On June 16, 2026, Bill C-37, An Act respecting water, source water, drinking water, wastewater and related infrastructure on First Nation lands (the First Nations Clean Water Act), was tabled in the House of Commons. For too long, our people have been denied the right to clean drinking water. First Nations have been calling for new, better water legislation This call cannot wait any longer.

Much of the new, proposed legislation is similar to the previously tabled Bill C-61, which did not pass due to prorogation.

There are concerns, however, with the new bill based on preliminary analysis by the AFN. These include the lack of commitment to the full achievement of the human right to water, limited definition of First Nations lands, weakened co-development and consultation provisions, reliance on “best efforts” language, and uncertainty regarding the interaction between the right to water supply and existing provincial water allocation regimes.

Read the AFN Analysis Bulletin here

The way forward is for the government to work with First Nations to improve the bill through robust engagement that respects our rights and free, prior and informed consent. Parliamentary committee hearings on the Bill are expected this Fall. All First Nations who want to present their positions and recommendations must be heard.

We are providing the following background materials, tools and messaging for First Nations to ensure ministers and all parliamentarians hear our concerns and act on them. Co-development will always result in better policy, better legislation, and better outcomes for First Nations and Canada.