Overview
- The B.C. government introduced Bill 15 to expedite infrastructure and resource project approvals, citing economic pressures and U.S. tariff threats.
- First Nations leaders and the Union of B.C. Municipalities held a joint news conference on May 22, calling for the bill's withdrawal or amendment.
- Indigenous leaders, including Robert Phillips of the First Nations Summit, criticized the unilateral development of the bill as a setback for reconciliation efforts.
- Premier David Eby defended the legislation as necessary for economic stability but signaled conditional openness to dialogue on consent.
- Opposition groups warned of protests, litigation, and direct action if the government proceeds without proper consultation in line with reconciliation obligations.