South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden signed multiple bills into law Tuesday morning, including a bill defending the freedom of religion.
The freedom of religion bill changes the penalty for using threats or violence to prevent the practice of religion from a misdemeanor to a class 6 felony. It would allow the action to be punishable by up to two years in prison and a $4,000 fine.
In a press release, Rhoden said, “We saw this right come under assault in Minnesota, but in South Dakota, we won’t stand for it. I am proud to sign this bill into law and defend our God-given right for future generations.”
Additionally, a bill reclassifying the medical composition of crystalline polymorph psilocybin in medication, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, from a Schedule I to IV controlled substance was signed into law.
Reclassification will allow the use of psychedelics to treat mental illnesses such as PTSD or treatment-resistant depression.
Other states, including North Dakota, Nebraska, and Colorado, have passed similar legislation on the therapeutic usage of psychedelics.
