PIERRE, S.D.(SDBA)- The South Dakota House of Representatives passed HB1004 Monday.  The bill removes the provision from Initiated Measure 26 that allows for medical cannabis patients to grow their own plants. 

Republican Representative Fred Deutsch of District Four was the bill’s prime sponsor. He says allowing home grow is a slippery slope to increased crime and black market sales.

Republican Representative Taylor Rehfeldt of District 14 rose in opposition to the bill. She says if home growing isn’t an option in rural South Dakota patients will inevitably turn to the black market.

The Senate is considering a similar bill that doesn’t eliminate home grow, but rather allows cardholders to grow and cultivate three plants.