South Dakota Medical Marijuana Oversight Committee to Meet August 19, With New Patient Advocate on Board

The session will feature the debut of Kacey Entwisle as the committee’s newly appointed patient advocate, a role she brings personal experience to after helping a family member manage kidney disease with medical cannabis. Entwisle’s June appointment came after some discussion over a potential conflict of interest, as her husband operates a licensed cultivation business. She was ultimately confirmed by a 14-1 vote and is expected to focus on improving patient access, keeping costs manageable, addressing veterans’ healthcare needs, and ensuring the program prioritizes treatment effectiveness.

The 11-member committee includes four lawmakers—Representatives Bobbi Andera (R) and Josephine Garcia (R), along with Senators John Carley (R) and Lauren Nelson (R)—and seven non-legislative members from fields ranging from healthcare to law enforcement. Agenda items for the upcoming meeting include electing a chair and vice chair, reviewing the state’s medical marijuana program, hearing industry updates, discussing public safety and enforcement issues, and examining product tracking, testing, and efficacy. Public comment will also be taken.

As of August 1, South Dakota had 14,020 registered medical marijuana patients, up from 12,186 last October. While the increase suggests access is improving, those with conditions not covered by the state’s qualifying list still face barriers. The committee is also expected to discuss the growing availability of unregulated synthetic THC products like delta-8 and delta-10, which are sold outside the state’s medical framework and have raised public health concerns.

The August 19 meeting will mark the first time a patient advocate has participated in shaping the state’s medical marijuana policies, offering what supporters hope will be a stronger voice for patients, veterans, and other stakeholders in the program’s future.