Tribal Health Board Announces Restrictions
The tribal health board of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes approved a health plan last week with the goal of limiting the spread of COVID-19.
The restrictions include that masks are required of all individuals over the age of 5 in all public spaces regardless of their vaccination status while in large groups or gatherings of 100 people or more. Children between the ages of 2-4 are encouraged to wear masks when possible. Masks may be removed while eating or drinking or for identification purposes.
Tribal casinos can operate at regular hours with restrictions in place. Community halls are open for all events.
All requirements regarding social distancing remain in effect for unvaccinated individuals. People who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are advised to continue to take precautions.
Employees who have concerns about returning to work because of a directive from their health care provider due to pre-existing conditions are directed to contact their direct supervisors.
On Monday, Aug. 16, the tribal health board decided that all events and celebrations shall be shut down in the event that there are 20 or more active COVID cases among IHS eligible members on the reservation.
The Fort Peck Tribes will provide masks, hand sanitizer and 10 porto- potties to each powwow this year. If there’s a greater need, it is the responsibility of each powwow committee to provide and pay for them.
Any outside entity doing business on the Fort Peck Reservation such as working, contracting, volunteering, is required to become fully vaccinated by Oct. 1, unless if they can provide valid medical documentation stating that they are unable to receive the vaccine.
Phase III reopening will start upon reaching a 60 percent vaccination rate among enrolled members with a full reopening occurring only after 70 percent of enrolled members are fully vaccinated. Currently among IHS eligible individuals, 37 percent are fully vaccinated and 52 percent have received one shot.
