Bullock announces new state-wide restrictions

Gov. Steve Bullock announced today new restrictions to take effect Friday in an attempt to reduce the spread of COVID-19 throughout Montana, which he said has created a dire situation.

"Lives are at stake in what we each do individually between now and the wide-spread availability of the vaccine, Bullock said during a pres conference this afternoon. "... Our health care workers are exhausted and our in hospital resources are becoming exhausted."

The new restrictions ibclude that restaurants, bars, breweries, distilleries and casinos operate at a maximum of 50 percent capacity and close no later than 10 p.m. Tables will be limited to six people and establishments are still required to maintain social distancing.

This is the only restriction that isn't already covered by Hill County Public Health Director and Health Officer Kim Larson's recent order. Other restrictions include limiting public gatherings to 25 individuals where social distancing is not possible -- with places of worship exempted -- and to require face coverings in all counties regardless of case count.