IM 29 proponents upset with negative ads

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Supporters of Initiated Measure 29, which would legalize cannabis for adults in South Dakota, say the campaign against the measure crossed a line.

They are accusing opponents of running a digital ad with the intent to deceive voters.

Matthew Schweich, Executive Director of South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws, says the add leads voter to believe IM 29 would legalize or decriminalize hard drugs.

“This ad in question states: ‘measure 29 doesn’t just legalize marijuana.’ This statement is made on the screen in large text (and) it is included in the voiceover,” Schweich said. “The question of what measure 29 legalizes is not a matter of opinion, it is crystal clear based on the text of the initiative that measure 29 only legalizes marijuana and marijuana products.”

Opponents of IM 29 say marijuana is not healthy.

“The ad is the truth and people need to know what that truth is,” Rhonda Milstead with Protecting South Dakota Kids said. “What is the truth? The truth is that marijuana is not healthy, marijuana will lead to other drug use, drug abuse and it’s going to harm our communities that’s the truth.”

Be informed on the seven 2024 ballot measures

• Amendment E
• Amendment F
• Amendment G
• Amendment H
• IM 28
• IM 29
• Referred Law 21

Milstead says they have no plans to pull the advertisement.

Schweich believes the digital ad could violate FCC regulations and he would ask TV stations in South Dakota not to run it.

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