In this 17th episode of Markets and Leaders, host Lyndsay Malchuk sits down with Todd Stone, President and CEO of the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME), for a critical and timely conversation about one of the most controversial issues in British Columbia’s resource development: DRIPA. Todd brings a unique perspective, having spent almost 12 years as an MLA in the BC legislature, including during the 2019 debate when DRIPA was introduced. Together, they unpack what DRIPA was originally created to do, how it has evolved far beyond its initial intent, and why that evolution is creating uncertainty for investors, explorers, and First Nations alike. Todd shares his insights on the gap between aspiration and implementation, the lack of clarity around consent versus consultation, the deep impact on permitting timelines for mineral exploration, and why restoring DRIPA to its original purpose is essential for BC to remain competitive. They also discuss the broader national implications, the upcoming Supreme Court decision on the Gitxaala case, and why the world is watching how BC navigates this pivotal moment.