MITCHELL, S.D. (WNAX) – Industrial hemp was a big issue during this year’s legislative session, is being studied by a legislative summer committee, and was the topic of a forum at Dakotafest in Mitchell.

Department of Public Safety Secretary Craig Price says everyone needs more information about the topic.

Price says they are in contact with public safety officials in states where hemp has been legalized.

Price says Governor Kristi Noem recognized that state agencies were not ready to take on industrial hemp enforcement and monitoring.

Price said during the forum there could be additional costs and manpower requirements for the highway patrol if industrial hemp is legalized.