Quick answer
Marijuana in South Dakota: medical-only. South Dakota has a medical cannabis program (approved 2020, dispensaries opening 2022). A 2024 ballot measure to legalize adult use was rejected by voters, so adult-use marijuana remains illegal. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test employees.
Key facts
- Medical marijuana legal since 2020.
Workplace testing
South Dakota allows workplace drug testing and employers may act on positive results. A medical card does not shield an employee from testing, and state law does not require employers to accommodate off-duty use.
South Dakota does not broadly protect off-duty cannabis use in employment; employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test under state law.
Detection & panels
See how long substances stay detectable in our detection chart, compare standard panels, or use the test finder. Local testing locations in South Dakota are listed on the South Dakota drug testing page.
Frequently asked questions
Is marijuana legal in South Dakota?
South Dakota status: medical-only. South Dakota has a medical cannabis program (approved 2020, dispensaries opening 2022). A 2024 ballot measure to legalize adult use was rejected by voters, so adult-use marijuana remains illegal. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test employees.
Can an employer in South Dakota drug test me?
South Dakota allows workplace drug testing and employers may act on positive results. A medical card does not shield an employee from testing, and state law does not require employers to accommodate off-duty use.
Does a medical card protect me from testing in South Dakota?
South Dakota does not broadly protect off-duty cannabis use in employment; employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test under state law.