What happens if Governor Noem vetoes industrial hemp?

PIERRE S.D. – Legislation regarding the growing and cultivation of industrial hemp is making its way through the state legislature, and Governor Kristi Noem says she still has ‘grave concerns’ about the commodity.

The Senate floor may be the last stop for bill to legalize industrial hemp before it lands on the Governor’s desk. Noem’s administration says officials believe allowing hemp cultivation would come with a multi-million dollar price tag and lead to another push to permit marijuana in South Dakota.

If Governor Noem chooses to veto the bill, legislators can push for a veto override. Passing a bill takes only a majority of the legislature, but overriding a veto would take two-thirds or more of the vote.

On Saturday, several West River lawmakers attended a session in Rapid City where people could ask questions. According to Senator Lynne DiSanto, the majority of her colleagues in Pierre support the cultivation of hemp, but they are divided on whether Governor Noem would veto the bill.

“Well, at this point it sounds like we have split feelings about it,” Senator DiSanto said. “I expect her to veto it since she’s so outspoken. Some of my fellow Senators disagree with me and expect her to sign it, so it’s anyone’s guess. But I do believe it’s highly supported.”

The 2018 Federal Farm Bill which Governor Noem voted for legalized cultivation of industrial hemp nationally. Supporters say there’s an industry ready in South Dakota to start processing hemp products.

If hemp is passed this session, farmers wouldn’t be able to grow hemp until 2020 because they would miss the growing season.