Mask up Missoula: Health board passes measure requiring masks in all indoor public spaces

With the case count rising and participation lacking, Missoula County on Thursday became the second in Montana to mandate the wearing of face masks in all indoor public places – a rule that takes effect immediately.

In a special session, the City-County Health Board adopted the rule on a unanimous vote, saying efforts to strongly encourage the wearing of masks haven’t been successful.

“We had hoped in the community to increase the normal use of masks,” said City-County Health Officer Ellen Leahy. “While a lot of people are trying and business are trying to require masks, we’ve been called upon and it’s been clearly indicated that it will take more of a mandate to support those who are trying and wish to go out and not be necessarily exposed to someone elses germs.”