Southwest Montana News

Governor Greg Gianforte has addressed Montana's health care professionals in an open letter, expressing gratitude for their service during the pandemic and urging unvaccinated workers to explore options to remain employed. This appeal comes ahead of the federal vaccine mandate deadline for health care workers set by President Biden.

In his letter, Governor Gianforte praised the dedication of health care workers in Montana, stating, “Your efforts are nothing short of heroic, and we are fortunate to have such dependable, hardworking health care workers in our state.”

He also reiterated his commitment to opposing discrimination based on vaccination status. “I want you to know I’m wholeheartedly committed to defending Montanans against discrimination based on their vaccination status,” he emphasized. He noted that legal challenges regarding the mandate continue in district and appellate courts.

Under the federal mandate, health care workers at covered facilities must receive a vaccine dose or have an exemption application pending or approved by February 14. The governor encouraged professionals to consider religious and medical exemptions available through employers and consult with colleagues or medical providers about vaccination.

To assist those seeking exemptions, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services released a template form last month for religious exemptions. According to reports from hospital systems statewide, thousands of health care workers have utilized this form to maintain employment while adhering to their beliefs.

Gianforte concluded by stressing the importance of retaining experienced health care staff amid ongoing shortages: “As Montanans who have faced a longstanding shortage of health care professionals, we simply can’t afford to lose you, your colleagues, your experience, and your compassionate, dedicated care due to President Biden’s vaccine mandate.”

The full text of Governor Gianforte’s letter is available online.