Pierre, SD, USA / DRGNews
Dec 28, 2020 2:23 PM
(Greater Dakota News Service)- At the onset of the pandemic, South Dakota officials used a federal grant to help ensure that people struggling with mental-health issues could connect with key services. As the pandemic collides with a stressful holiday season, the state wants people to know they can still access the “605 Strong”program.
Social Services Secretary Laurie Gill says “6-0-5 Strong” offers resources and support, including crisis intervention, through a COVID-19 call center. It’s designed for folks dealing with unemployment, housing and health concerns.
“People are still experiencing the effects of the pandemic, and we know that holidays – along with being joyful – for many people can be stressful, and sad and lonely.”
Pierre, SD, USA / DRGNews
Dec 10, 2020 6:25 AM
(Greater Dakota News Service)- Last month, 53% of South Dakota voters approved a constitutional amendment legalizing recreational marijuana use for those age 21 years and older, but a legal challenge and strong opposition from Republican leaders could hinder the changes.
Dave Wiltse, a political scientist at South Dakota State University, says despite passage, the state still is very conservative. Some members of law enforcement and Governor Kristi Noem remain firmly opposed so, he says, if they can’t stop marijuana legalization, they might try other ways to limit access.
“We could see really high licensing fees, we could see high regulation of this industry to the point that it might be prohibitive for someone to enter it.”