SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Recreational marijuana will remain illegal in South Dakota.
Voters rejected Initiated Measure 29.
The measure would’ve legalized the growth, possession, ingestion, and distribution of the drug.
Hundreds of thousands of voters across the state weighed in on the future of recreational marijuana in South Dakota.
The no votes came out on top, but IM 29 opponent Rhonda Milstead says it’s not about winning.
“It is truly about keeping South Dakota a safe place for our families, our children, letting them thrive. That’s what this is about for us,” Milstead said.
The measure would’ve legalized cannabis for people 21 and older.
“There are consequences outside of the users that affect other people, whether it’s whether it’s by driving or crime or mental health issues, and South Dakota is an amazing place. Let’s keep it that way,” Milstead said.
In a past interview with KELOLAND News, an IM 29 supporter spoke about wanting a regulated system for marijuana.
“Marijuana already exists in South Dakota. Measure 29 does not invent marijuana in South Dakota. It’s already here, it’s being sold by dealers, who don’t check IDs, who don’t ensure the safety of the product, who do nothing on product labeling or packaging or dosage. That’s how marijuana is being sold in South Dakota,” IM 29 Supporter Matthew Schweich told KELOLAND News in October.
“You cannot regulate the drug cartels,” Milstead said.
This is the third attempt at legalizing recreational marijuana in recent years.
Voters approved Constitutional Amendment A in 2020, but a judge ruled it violated the state’s single subject clause.
A separate measure legalized medical marijuana.
KELOLAND News has reached out to supporters of the measure.
We’ll update this story when we get their reaction.
