South Dakota Attorney General Releases Final Ballot Explanation For Marijuana Legalization Initiative – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

A prospective ballot measure that would legalize adult-use marijuana in South Dakota and allow medical dispensaries to serve anyone 21 and older received a final ballot explanation from the state’s attorney general on Thursday—but the chief backer of the proposal says he has no plans to collect signatures or campaign for the change.

The measure, sponsored by Rapid City resident Emmett Reistroffer, would allow “individuals 21 of age or older to possess, grow, ingest, and distribute marijuana or marijuana paraphernalia,” according to Attorney General Marty Jackley’s (R) final explanation. Adults could possess up to three ounces of marijuana and grow up to six plants, with no more than 12 plants per household.

Driving under the influence of marijuana would remain illegal, as would cannabis-related activity by people under 21.

@SDAttorneyGen‘s Office releases final ballot explanation for draft initiated measure that would legalize recreational marijuana and create dual-use licenses for medical marijuana dispensaries. The AG’s Office takes no position on any such proposal. https://t.co/x43brsqhKD pic.twitter.com/LQWvLGrCCW

— SD Attorney General (@SDAttorneyGen) December 7, 2023

Sales under the proposal would happen through existing medical marijuana dispensaries, which would be able to obtain dual-use licenses through the state Department of Health. “Local governments may not prohibit dual-use licenses,” the explanation says, “but may cap the number…