Right now the bill is set up in such a way that first nations have the ability to choose the standards, but if a choice is not made, then the minister would have to work with first nations, consult and co-operate to determine a standard, federal or provincial. Requiring consent could delay the process indefinitely if a first nation were unable to make a decision, so this is meant to provide a practical approach to ensuring that water standards are acceptable and are in place on first nation lands.
On November 18th, 2024. See this statement in context.