Act No. 56 on the Sámi Parliament and other Sámi legal matters (The Sámi Act).

The purpose of this Act is to enable Sami peoples in Norway the ability to safeguard and develop their language, culture and way of life. It applies without prejudice to the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, and shall be applied with international laws on indigenous people and minorities. The Act contains the following Chapters: 1. General provisions; 2. The Sámi Parliament; 3. Sámi language; 4. Consultations; 5. Transitional provisions and entry into force.
The Sámi parliament's scope of work covers all matters that, according the Parliament's opinion, particularly concerns the Sámi people. Specific provisions are laid down concerning elections, voting rights, administration, etc. The Act recognizes Sami and Norwegian as equals. Acts and regulations of special interest for parts or all of the Sámi people shall be translated to Sami. Further, the Act lays down specific rules on the use of Sami in the public sector.
As regards consultations, the Act establishes the right of the Sámi parliament and other representatives of Sámi interests to be consulted. On the other hand, the Act establishes the obligation on the government administration to consult. The consultations shall be carried out in good faith and with the aim of reaching agreement, and complete information shall be provided at all staged of the procedure. Consultations shall not be concluded as long as there are possibilities of reaching an agreement on the matter at issue.