First Nations in New Brunswick may soon have a clearer path to enforcing their own bylaws under new proposed legislation.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Robert McKee said First Nations communities have been asking for a practical way to implement their laws.
“First Nations communities have been clear that there must be an efficient and practical way to implement their laws,” McKee said in a government release.
The legislation would amend the Provincial Offences Procedure Act and its General Regulation.
The provincial government said the changes would confirm that provincial procedures can apply to First Nations bylaws, if communities choose to use them.
First Nations develop their own bylaws to address local priorities, including public safety, land use, environmental protection and community well‑being.
Under the proposal, police officers and designated First Nations enforcement officers would be able to issue tickets or appearance notices for bylaw violations.
Individuals could pay the fine or contest the matter in court.
The government said fines collected through the system would be returned to First Nations communities.
The province said the legislation is designed to be flexible.
More serious bylaw infractions could still move through the courts by way of formal charges.
The proposed changes were developed with First Nations partners, including the Wolastoqey Nation, Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Inc., and Elsipogtog First Nation, along with law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders.
Sitansisk (Saint Mary’s) First Nation Chief Allan Polchies said the amendments are an important step forward.
“These amendments are an important step forward in recognizing First Nations’ authority to pass their own laws,” Polchies said.
If passed, the amendments would take effect upon proclamation to allow time for training and implementation.
