"As Montanans take seriously the responsibility to stay home to slow the spread of COVID-19, they shouldn't also have to worry about whether they can keep a roof over their heads or if they'll have running water. They shouldn't have to worry about having the heat turned off, (or) if they can't pay the rent or make a monthly utility bill," Bullock said.

The governor also halted shutting off electric, gas, sewer, water, phone and internet services or charging late fees. NorthWestern Energy, the main gas and electric provider in the state, had already done so.

The order does not relieve tenants or homeowners of their payment obligations, Bullock said, and he told those who could pay their bills to do so.

" … Now let me be clear, this directive is not a free pass on rents or on home debt, tenants and homeowners still need to meet their obligations," Bullock said. The directive does not include provisions for landlords, though they also would have protections for their mortgages under the directive.