The Canadian government won't force First Nations in Saskatchewan to accept the province's new ban on smoking in public places.

First Nations leaders asserted that the province has no jurisdiction on tribal lands, including gaming facilities. Indian Affairs Minister Andy Scott agreed, approving the White Bear First Nation's smoking bylaw.

Saskatchewan's ban went into effect on January 1 and applies to virtually all public places.

Get the Story:
Ottawa won't block smoking bylaw on reserve casino (CBC 1/18)

Relevant Links:
Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations - http://www.fsin.com

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First Nations seek approval for own smoking laws (1/14)
First Nation leaders vote against smoking ban (12/16)
Saskatchewan First Nations resist smoking ban (10/07)
Non-Indians want smoking ban for First Nations too (10/4)
Manitoba's smoking ban won't apply to First Nation (9/30)