New legislation could expand First Nations status — here's what you need to know

OTTAWA - Senators have passed sweeping amendments to a bill that would simplify the transfer of First Nations status between generations, but it’s not clear yet if those changes will pass the House of Commons.

Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty told The Canadian Press she is still consulting with First Nations on how to address the issue.

First Nations status is a highly complex and personal topic, and changes to the rules on who can claim status will have ripple effects throughout both First Nations communities and individual families with mixed legal standing under the Indian Act.

First Nations status under the Indian Act allows individuals to access certain social services and tax benefits. Under the current rules, however, individuals whose close family members hold statu