On November 18, the first medical cannabis patient cards in South Dakota were printed, with the first going to a resident of Day County.

The resident received his card in accordance with codified law SDCL 34-20G. It’s important to note that the card-issuing process would not have been possible without the dedication of the South Dakota Department of Health and Governor Noem and the South Dakota Department of Health.

Following the awarding of South Dakota’s first medical cannabis card, the following statement was issued by Medical Cannabis Program Administrator, Geno Adams:

“Today marks the culmination of months of hard work in preparation for the kickoff of a responsive and efficient medical cannabis program for eligible South Dakotans. In the months ahead, we will continue to ensure that patients and their caregivers can continue to obtain medical cannabis permits in accordance with their written certifications.”

South Dakota’s medical cannabis industry was legalized in November of last year, when the voters of South Dakota passed Initiated Measure 26 (IM 26).

Tribal community in South Dakota embraces medical cannabis

The Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe’s (FSST) medical cannabis industry continues to flourish. In July, the Native Nations Cannabis retail store opened its doors to keen customers. The unique dispensary features a conjoined grow-site and laboratory testing space.

According to President of the FSST, Tony Reider, business is moving in the right direction. On the other hand, the tribal nation has a lot of catching up to do in terms of industry expansion.

“It’s been great. Business has been right on spot with where we projected it would be. One of the biggest complaints that I would say we receive is the ability to only purchase an eighth [of an ounce] of flower,” said Reider, adding that, “a lot of people would like to purchase up to that full ounce at a time. The problem is it depletes our supply real quick.”

Fortunately, the Tribe is currently working on the renovation/construction of two new cultivation facilities. Once the projects are complete, the Native Nations Cannabis dispensary will be capable of churning out triple the amount of cannabis that it currently serves to qualified patients.

Participating in South Dakota’s medical cannabis program

If you are (or someone you know is) a caregiver, patient or medical provider who wants to learn more about participating in South Dakota’s medical cannabis program, visit the MedCannabis.sd.gov website.

Featured on the site is a ‘Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) section, in addition to an Agency-updated category covering everything about South Dakota’s medical cannabis establishments.

Medical cannabis cards are issued to every caregiver and patient who applies for enrollment in the state’s program. Moreover, applicants can get their hands on a flyer outlining the reasons medical cannabis should be stored responsibly.