HAVRE, Mont. (NMB) – Although Governor Greg Gianforte officially allowed the statewide mask mandate to expire on Friday morning, local jurisdictions are still able to enforce their own orders.
The Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy Reservations already had their own mask mandates in place and have announced they will remain in effect.
The County Health Departments on the Hi-Line all continue to encourage mask use, but none have issued new orders at this time.
The Health Departments for Chouteau and Hill Counties both told New Media Broadcasters they plan on holding Health Board meetings next week to discuss the issue.
Blaine County’s Health Department is in discussions with their Health Board and the community to seek their input. Health Officer Jana McPherson-Hauer says a new mask directive is not imminent, but it is possible they could issue a limited order if enough stakeholders request it.
Liberty County Public Health held an emergency meeting on Friday morning. It is not clear if any action was taken.
Phillips County Health Department did not immediately respond to a phone call seeking comment.
Individual businesses and entities can also enforce their own rules regarding mask wearing.
Stay tuned to New Media Broadcasters for updates.
