Third Montana lawmaker tests positive for COVID-19

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — GOP state Rep. Brian Putnam has tested positive for COVID-19, the Montana House Republicans said.

Putnam felt mildly symptomatic Thursday night, was tested Friday and received his positive test result on Sunday. He notified leadership of his results and authorized the release of his name.

Putnam participated in the Legislature remotely on Friday and will continue to do so. He is a member of the House State Administration and Natural Resources committees.

His closest contacts have been notified and contact tracing is ongoing, House leaders said.

Putnam is the third Montana lawmaker to report having tested positive for COVID-19 during the 2021 session.

Rep. David Bedey, R-Hamilton, tested positive for COVID-19 on Jan. 7 while Rep. Fiona Nave, R-Columbus, announced a positive test four days later. Nave had been participating in the session remotely.