Protecting Cannabis Progress: How South Dakotans Can Safeguard Their Rights

Over the past decade, cannabis reform has surged across the United States. Yet recent developments reveal that this progress is far from guaranteed. Anti-legalization groups are reorganizing, changing their tactics, and gaining ground—even in states with strong public support for cannabis. South Dakota is no exception.

A New Kind of Opposition

In the latest round of elections, cannabis legalization measures failed in three out of four states, including South Dakota. What changed? Opponents of legalization have rebranded their messaging. Instead of focusing on outdated anti-drug rhetoric, they now emphasize concerns about corporate monopolies, public safety, and the potential for cannabis to be exploited by big business.

This new strategy was effective in Florida, where a well-funded opposition campaign painted legalization as a scheme for corporate control rather than a move toward personal freedom. Even with public support exceeding 60%, the measure failed. A similar narrative is unfolding here in South Dakota.

Why It Matters for South Dakota

Cannabis reform in South Dakota represents more than just the right to consume. It's about economic opportunity, access to alternative medicine, and reducing the criminalization of non-violent behavior. A thriving cannabis industry could mean new jobs, tax revenue, and support for local agriculture and small businesses.

But if voters are swayed by misinformation or fear-based campaigns, these opportunities could vanish. Powerful national lobbying groups are working hard to stall or reverse progress, and without organized local action, they may succeed.

What You Can Do

Now more than ever, it's essential for South Dakotans to get involved. Here are three powerful ways you can help protect cannabis rights in our state:

1. Stay Informed

Track cannabis legislation and news at both the state and federal level. Sign up for newsletters from advocacy groups, and follow public hearings and committee meetings that address cannabis policy.

2. Contact Your Lawmakers

Reach out to your local representatives. Call, email, or meet with them to express your support for fair and responsible cannabis laws. Personalized messages go a long way in shaping political priorities.

3. Support Local Advocacy

Groups like South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws are leading the charge for reform. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply amplifying their message on social media, your involvement strengthens the movement.

Conclusion: Your Voice Matters

The fight for cannabis rights is about more than legalization. It's about who controls the narrative, who benefits from the industry, and whether freedom and opportunity are reserved only for the well-connected. In South Dakota, the future of cannabis reform depends on people like you.

Don’t let progress be undone. Stay informed. Stay active. And make your voice heard.

Cannabis and Athletic Recovery: New NCAA Research Suggests a Changing Tide For Cannabis

As cannabis continues to gain recognition for its therapeutic potential, a recent study supported by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is shedding new light on how athletes are already using it—and how that might shape the future of cannabis in health and wellness.

At Genesis Farms, South Dakota’s top-ranking cannabis company, we’ve long believed in the power of the plant. Our mission is rooted in education, innovation, and wellness—and this study adds meaningful weight to the idea that cannabis can be an effective, natural solution for managing pain and supporting recovery.

New NCAA-Funded Research Points to Positive Findings

According to a study cited in Marijuana Moment¹, more than 3,500 student-athletes across NCAA Division I, II, and III schools were surveyed to explore their cannabis usage, especially in relation to pain management. What researchers found was compelling: a significant number of athletes reported positive outcomes using marijuana to manage physical pain.

In the words of the researchers:

“Findings suggest that, in general, cannabis use is associated with positive outcomes for managing pain symptoms among student-athlete users.”

This isn’t just anecdotal evidence—it’s data coming directly from one of the most conservative sectors in regard to cannabis use: collegiate sports. The study was funded through the NCAA’s Substance Use and Abuse Strategic Task Force, showing that even mainstream institutions are beginning to ask serious questions about the plant's potential.

What Does This Mean for the Cannabis Industry?

This is more than just another research paper. It could signal a shift in how cannabis is viewed across sports, medicine, and regulatory frameworks.

Historically, cannabis has been lumped in with banned substances, both at the professional and collegiate levels. Even as state laws have evolved, athletes have faced suspensions, fines, and even career setbacks due to cannabis use. But this study may provide a foundation for rethinking outdated policies.

What we’re witnessing is the beginning of a possible transformation in how cannabis is utilized—not just by athletes, but by anyone seeking natural alternatives to pain relief.

A Safer Future for Pain Management?

One of the most encouraging takeaways from this study is the potential for cannabis to serve as a safer alternative to prescription painkillers, which are commonly used (and often overused) by athletes. Opioids come with a long list of risks, including addiction and long-term health consequences.

The study doesn’t just highlight usage—it spotlights positive results, with many athletes noting improvements in their symptoms. While researchers emphasized the need for more controlled research, this could pave the way for broader clinical trials and future guidelines that embrace cannabis as part of a holistic approach to recovery.

Our Commitment at Genesis Farms

As the conversation evolves, Genesis Farms will remain at the forefront—offering premium products, educating our community, and supporting scientific research that demystifies cannabis.

We’re not just growing cannabis—we’re growing trust, understanding, and access to safe, consistent, and high-quality ways cannabis can play a meaningful role in your journey.

We welcome this new research, and we’re hopeful for what it means—not just for athletes, but for all cannabis users who believe in cannabis

Stay connected with us here at Genesis Farms as we continue to explore and share new developments in cannabis science, legislation, and innovation.

Footnote
¹ “Marijuana Demonstrated Positive Findings For Managing Pain In NCAA Athletes, New Research Says.” Marijuana Moment, March 22, 2025. https://www.marijuanamoment.net/marijuana-demonstrated-positive-findings-for-managing-pain-in-ncaa-athletes-new-research-says/

CANNABIS Legislative Update: WE DID IT!

The 2025 Legislative Session at the South Dakota State Capitol has officially ended, and all four (4) bills that would have outlawed medical cannabis completely, or restricted patient access to medical cannabis, were successfully defeated, thanks to the efforts by our lobbying team and advocacy friends, and all of you who took the time to contact your elected Representatives and Senators. 

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Genesis Farms Retail Director at the State Capitol with Vietnam Veteran Randy K and Kasey E, Owner of Pitbull Acres, after presesnting educational information to lawmakers.

This year’s legislative attacks from elected politicians went directly against the will of voters who overwhelmingly passed medical cannabis in 2020 (69% in support). Our lobbying team played a critical role in defeating these attacks, including Genesis Farms’ Retail Director, Emmett Reistroffer, who testified against multiple bills, answered official committee questions and provided educational information to lawmakers. 

We want to take a moment to thank our advocacy friends, Kasey and Randy, who worked closely with us during this year’s legislative session, by sharing their family’s journey and success story with medical cannabis. Randy played an especially important role by speaking out for Veterans across South Dakota who can benefit from medical cannabis but still face extra difficulty getting approval for a medical card. Randy is a Recon Marine Veteran who served two tours in Vietnam and significantly improved his health with Rick Simpson Cannabis Oil (RSO) from Genesis Farms. 

Vietnam Veteran Randy sharing his personal story with Governor Larry Rhoden.

Last but not least, we want to THANK YOU, each and every one of you, for responding to our calls-to-actions and contacting your State Representatives and Senators. Many of you shared your own personal stories and support for the medical cannabis program. We heard from many legislators that they decided to vote in support of protecting medical cannabis patients like you, specifically because of the feedback they received from their constituents. Thank you!

This year’s legislative attacks are an important reminder for all patients and their families and friends about the importance of registering to vote and getting involved.

Want to next the step and join our advocacy team?

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