Senator expects hemp issue to return to legislature next year

VERMILLION, S.D. (WNAX) – Authorizing the production of industrial hemp seemed to get the attention of the 2019 session of the South Dakota legislature.

Bills to allow hemp passed both chambers before Governor Kristi Noem derailed it with a veto.

Senator Art Rusch of Vermillion supported the authorization.

Rusch says he expects the issue to return next year.

Noem said she vetoed the bill because federal rules for hemp have not been written yet and because of a concern the authorization would lead to legalization of marijuana.