Yankton Sioux Tribe hosts meeting to discuss legalization of marijuana

Friday, June 30, 2017  

The Yankton Sioux Tribe is asking its citizens about the possibility of legalizing marijuana.

The tribe is hosting a general council meeting on July 21 to discuss the issue, The Yankton Press & Dakotan reported. Chairman Robert Flying Hawk previously told the paper he was open to marijuana for medical use only but any potential changes are up to voters.

Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. A policy issued by the Department of Justice during the Obama administration seemingly opened the door for the drug in Indian Country but only a few tribes have successfully entered the industry.

The Trump administration has not officially rescinded the policy but Attorney General Jeff Sessions has vowed to take a harder stance against marijuana.

The drug is also illegal under South Dakota law and the state claims it can enforce the law against non-Indians on reservations. Two non-Indians who were working with the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe on a marijuana project were prosecuted although one was found not guilty on all charges.

Read More on the Story:
Tribe To Discuss Medicinal, Recreational Pot Options (The Yankton Press & Dakotan 6/29)

Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe cannabis consultant found not guilty (May 25, 2017)