RAPID CITY, SD – In an effort to ensure community safety and support education around a state law enacted last year, members of the Rapid City Police Department and Pennington County Sheriff’s Office conducted compliance checks at several local smoke shops and convenience stores.
The initiative stems from House Bill 1125, passed during the 2024 legislative session, which closed a loophole in South Dakota law that previously allowed the chemical conversion of hemp into intoxicating cannabinoids, such as delta-8 and delta-10 THC. These substances, often found in the form of gummies, suckers, vape cartridges, oils, and beverages, can have potent psychoactive effects similar to marijuana.
On June 10th of this year, letters were sent out to local businesses advising them of the updated law and impending enforcement action. Following an ample amount of time after this notification, officers and deputies purchased a variety of these products with the intention of forensically testing them to determine whether they comply with the law. The priority of this effort is not only enforcement, but education, awareness and overall compliance of laws passed by the South Dakota State Legislature.
“We want to better understand what’s being sold in our community and ensure that both consumers and retailers are informed,” said State’s Attorney Lara Roetzel.
Under HB 1125, it is now unlawful to sell chemically modified hemp-derived products that produce an intoxicating effect. Businesses found to be knowingly selling non-compliant products may face penalties, including a Class 2 misdemeanor for each violation.
“These products are widely accessible, and it’s important products are not only safe for consumption, but legal for use under state law,” Rapid City Police Chief Don Hedrick said.
“It’s incumbent on those selling these products to know what is legal and what is illegal,” said Pennington County Sheriff Brian Mueller. “We will continue this process of checking business establishments until we have the confidence that what is being sold is legal and safe for customers.”
