Local cannabis grower says passing legislation will keep consumers safe

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - Last week we spoke with pro-marijuana advocate Matthew Schweich about recreational marijuana use and its chances on the upcoming November ballot. This week KEVN News spoke with a grower about the impacts this could have on all South Dakotans.

Four years ago recreational marijuana legislation was passed with a 54% vote only to be shot down by Governor Kristi Noem’s administration. Since then advocates for recreational legalization have fought to get it back on the ballot and are optimistic about its chances in 2024.

“So we’re pretty confident that the voter turnout, the sentiment on cannabis is changing over the last 20 years and we feel we have a pretty solid chance of passing it this time around,” Co-owner of Black Hills Cannabis Care Nevada Ellison said.

Ellison says the main reason people’s views are changing on medicinal and recreational marijuana is the extensive research done showing the drug has a low probability of addiction according to the DEA.

“I feel like the sentiment on cannabis is changing. People are starting to realize it’s a safer alternative to alcohol for instance,” Ellison said.

Despite being a less addicting drug, Ellison wants people to know that passing legislation this November is not about making money for his company, but about keeping consumers safe.

“Right now they’re getting it primarily off the street or from CBE companies who are selling it and it’s an unsafe product. A lot of it failed for mold, heavy metals, and bacteria. So for me, I feel like it’s a smart move to regulate it, to tax it, let’s use this tax money and educate kids that all drugs are bad for you while your brain is developing,” Ellison said.

Ellison added he is not advocating for everyone to go out and try cannabis but feels it’s important for those who are consuming it, to get the safest product possible which will come if legislation is passed and the industry is regulated.

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