Local COVID health mandates have been rescinded by Yellowstone County Health Officer John Felton.
Felton announced the change in a press conference on Thursday, saying the change is effective immediately.
The rescinding of local orders does not affect those of the state, imposed in mid-November, which means the restrictions that former Governor Steve Bullock put into place requiring masks and for some businesses to operate at 50 percent capacity and to close at 10 pm, will remain in place for the time being.
In a press conference on Tuesday, Governor Gianforte said that changes under his new administration would not be made to state mandates until two things happen: vaccinations have been given to the most vulnerable in the state and a bill on his desk from the state legislature that provides protection from COVID-19 lawsuits for businesses, schools and non-profits.
In place of the mandates, Felton said businesses and each individual is expected to voluntarily remain cautious and continue doing those things that reduce the risk of spreading the disease including the standard wearing of masks, washing hands, sanitizing common surfaces, and maintaining social distancing.
The lifting of local restrictions would include the action Felton took to extend to all business the requirement that the Governor imposed on restaurants, bars, breweries, distillers and casinos to close by 10 pm. Grocery stores, retail shops or gas stations may close at any time they choose.
Restaurants, Bars, Breweries, Distilleries, and Casinos must still operate under the restrictions imposed by the Governor and which Governor Gianforte has said would not be changed for a couple of weeks. So those businesses must continue to operate at 50 percent capacity and close no later than 10 pm.
Tables must be limited to six people and establishments must provide for 6 feet of physical distancing between groups and or tables.
Public gatherings and events must remain limited to 25 Individuals where Social Distancing is not possible.
