Gov. Bullock Orders New Statewide Mask Mandate
On Tuesday, Governor Steve Bullock ordered new updated health restrictions as new cases of COVID-19 continue to increase across Montana.
We need to turn things around in the coming months while we wait on a widely distributed vaccine, or else we risk hospitals that turn patients away and any further ability to control the spread.
said Governor Steve Bullock.
The new directives ordered by Governor Bullock go into effect on Friday, November 20, and include;
- A new statewide mask requirement for all counties in Montana, regardless of the number of active cases. All businesses, government offices, and other indoor spaces open to the public in all counties in Montana will be required to follow the face covering requirement.
- Restaurants, bars, breweries, distilleries, and casinos will be required to operate at 50% of normal capacity and close no later than 10:00 p.m. Tables must be limited to 6 people per table, with 6 feet of physical distance between groups.
- All public gatherings and events will be limited to 25 individuals where it is not possible to practice social distancing or where social distancing is not being practiced. This does not alter the existing requirements for K-12 schools or apply to houses of worship.
The new directives are intended to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout the state, as resources for health care workers and hospitals become increasingly strained. In a statement last week, Bullock said that COVID-19 is projected to be near the top in leading causes of death in Montana this year, and asks that all Montanans stay home as much as possible, wear a face covering when out in public, and limit gatherings, particularly with the upcoming holiday season approaching.