Southwest Montana News

Governor Greg Gianforte has officially ended the state of emergency in Montana, which he initially declared in January 2021 to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. During his announcement, Gianforte stated, “Months ago, the light at the end of the tunnel was distant and dim. As we’ve worked together to overcome this pandemic, the light has grown bigger and brighter. Today, we are out of the tunnel, and we are surrounded in light. Today, the conditions we face are nothing like what we faced 15 months ago, 12 months ago, or six months ago.”

Gianforte highlighted Montanans' resilience throughout the pandemic and expressed pride in their efforts: “Montanans can be proud of the work they’ve done to overcome this pandemic and take care of themselves and each other. Working together, we have come through this stronger on the other side.”

The decision was based on a significant reduction in new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations over recent months as well as progress with vaccinations. So far, over 860,000 vaccine doses have been administered across Montana with more than 425,000 residents fully vaccinated.

Encouraging continued vaccination efforts, Gianforte emphasized that “the vaccines are safe, effective, free, and easy to get. They continue to be our best path forward.”

Additionally noted was Montana’s economic recovery progress. The state was first to opt out entirely from federal unemployment benefit programs initiated during the pandemic's onset—a move later followed by twenty-four other states.

To further support workforce reentry efforts within Montana's economy reopening phase while boosting employment levels again post-pandemic; Governor Gianforte introduced a return-to-work bonus program offering incentives for unemployed individuals who secure steady jobs lasting at least one month.

As an indicator reflecting these improvements statewide since early year figures recorded previously stood higher; May saw declines reported regarding local unemployment rates dropping downwards from January’s standing percentage points (3-point-six compared against four percent).