Sioux Falls, SD–Representative Steve Haugaard reacts to the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Amendment A, which would have legalized recreational marijuana usage in South Dakota.

“Today, the South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that Amendment A (Medical Marijuana, Hemp, and Recreational Marijuana) was an unconstitutional initiated measure, and was rejected by the Court on a technicality, due to the fact that it included more than one subject,” Haugaard explained.

“The voters definitely supported the availability of medical marijuana (which passed in IM 26 and remains as law) and it appeared voters were generally intending to support the idea of decriminalizing the use and possession of ‘recreational marijuana.’ However, the concern is that voters were left with some confusion as to whether both had to pass to legalize medical. That is why it is important to make sure that each measure contemplates only one subject, and that is why the Court ruled against it.”

Haugaard continued, “The Legislature is keenly aware of the public’s concern that the people’s voice must be heard and respected. As a result, the Legislature has already been working on bills and recommendations for the upcoming Session to work through the issues surrounding marijuana. It will be a subject of special interest during the Session.”

Steve Haugaard is the state representative for House District 10 and former Speaker of the House. He is running to replace Kristi Noem as governor of the great state of South Dakota. Haugaard’s nearly 40 years of legal experience will be a tremendous asset when working on issues important to the people of South Dakota. More about Steve can be found at his website, www.stevehaugaard.com.