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Bullock offers guidelines as Montana starts reopening

Posted at 2:09 PM, Apr 24, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-24 17:33:04-04

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock recommended against any big celebrations as his stay-at-home order is set to expire at the end of Friday.

Bullock said in a news conference that Montanans should continue to follow social-distancing guidelines and avoid large gatherings as certain businesses are allowed to reopen.

Bullock also gave updates on testing in Montana and how new cases of COVID-19 have begun tapering off statewide.

Bullock announced earlier this week that he would not extend his stay-at-home order, allowing Montana to enter into phase one of its reopening. On Sunday, churches are allowed to hold services, albeit for smaller congregations, and retail businesses and personal service businesses, such as salons and tattoo artists, can reopen Monday.

On May 4, restaurants and bars can reopen at 50 percent capacity and no patrons allowed at the bar. Schools have the option to reopen May 7, although the final decision is reserved for individual districts.

Click here for a complete list of scheduled reopenings for businesses.

On Friday, Montana reported 444 COVID-19 cases. The state has had 14 deaths related to coronavirus and 12 remain in the hospital. A total of 325 people have recovered.

Watch Bullock's news conference below: