Montana state government to start emergency remote work procedures

(KPAX) The State of Montana will be implementing emergency onsite and remote work procedures for many state employees beginning on Monday, March 23 due to COVID-19 concerns.

The change is designed to reduce potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus while maintaining necessary state-government operations. Each department director or agency head will identify which employees are able to work remotely.

State employees must receive approval from their managers before beginning to work remotely. Employees that can work from home can request to continue to work from the office, which will be considered by their manager.

Employees working in 24/7 facilities, law enforcement, public safety, and other essential public-service worksites, who cannot work remotely because their job duties do not allow for remote work or do not have the appropriate technology will continue to report to their regular work location.

The Governor’s Office released this statement regarding the changes:

“Providing a safe working environment is essential to our support functions for the state and must be prioritized accordingly during the COVID-19 situation. With these guidelines and procedures, we are confident we can accomplish this safe environment, while continuing to provide an essential set of support functions – both in response to this crisis and in meeting day-to-day responsibilities that serve the public.”