Puffy's LLC fights for medical marijuana licenses amid legal battle

During a recent council meeting, Kitrick Jeffries, co-owner of Puffy's LLC, addressed the ongoing legal challenges faced by the medical marijuana dispensary. Puffy's currently holds five medical marijuana licenses in South Dakota, which are under appeal regarding their operational status as defined by state administrative rules.

Jeffries highlighted that the appeals process is progressing, with recent oral arguments presented to the Supreme Court. He expressed concern over a potential moratorium that could hinder Puffy's ability to finalize its legal standing, which would also affect the awarding of licenses to other entities on the state's waiting list. He acknowledged that some on the waiting list believe Puffy's has sufficient licenses, but he defended his business's track record, citing over a dozen inspections by the South Dakota Department of Health that affirm its safe and effective operations.

The core of the dispute revolves around whether Puffy's engaged in enough activities to be classified as operational under its licenses. Jeffries emphasized the significant investment of over $3 million in the first year and questioned the rationale behind the determination that they were not operational. He concluded by stressing the importance of fairness in the licensing process, suggesting that the situation requires a balanced consideration of all parties involved.