Spike in COVID cases won’t change state restrictions, Bullock says

(KPAX) PABLO — As coronavirus cases continue to escalate in Montana, Gov. Steve Bullock said he has no intention of putting more restrictions in order at the state level.

Bullock said counties have the ability to add restrictions on a case-by-case basis.

Health officials in Custer County are recommending a return to Phase 1 for two weeks because of a recent spike in COVID-19 cases. Montana entered Phase 2 of Bullock’s reopening plan on June 1.

Moving back to Phase 1 would limit large gatherings, and reduce capacity in bars and restaurants back to 50%. Bullock said it’s up to Montana residents to do their part in keeping each other safe as the state continues to reopen.

“Every new positive test is concerning to me, and we will certainly closely monitor along the way, and there may be times like Big Horn County as an example putting greater restrictions than what we have at the state level, but I’m also counting on Montanans to continue to take this seriously because what we do in Montana is we take care of our friends and our neighbors,” said Bullock.

Health officials are asking residents to wear masks while out in public and to stay home if you’re not feeling well.