Originally published on May 7, 2021 6:14 pm Republican Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has signed into law a policy that county officials say prevents them from enforcing emergency public health restrictions, like mask mandates. The law prohibits local governments from making businesses follow mandates that prevent them from offering goods or services to a customer. It also curbs local governments’ authority to issue fines for not following health orders. State Republican lawmakers in the recently-adjourned legislative session prioritized policies limiting the power of local health officials, arguing restrictions intended to slow the coronavirus’ spread place an undue burden on residents. The Gallatin City-County Board of Health decided against extending the county mask mandate and public gathering restrictions due to the new law. Health Officer Matt Kelley said it’s causing widespread confusion.