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Daines weighs in on Montana schools sports fan restrictions

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U.S. Sen. Steve Daines has weighed in on whether Montana schools should allow fans at sporting events.

In a recent Facebook post, Daines said parents should be allowed to watch their children play fall sports.

Daines called on Gov. Steve Bullock, who is challenging him for his Senate seat in the upcoming election, to develop a statewide plan for allowing parents to participate from the bleachers.

"As a dad of 4, I can't imagine missing out on watching my kids play sports," Daines states. "I’ve heard from parents across Montana and they want leadership on this issue NOW. It's time for Gov. Bullock to step up and work with parents, coaches, schools and health officials on a plan for this season."

The issue of allowing fans to watch fall sports has become a sometimes heated debate as school districts across the state take measures to limit fans in an effort they say is to protect students returning to school during the pandemic.

Update 4 p.m. Aug. 26: Bullock's office released a statement in response to Daines' comments.

“Governor Bullock respects the role of locally elected officials and local public health officers who know what is best for their communities. No one should be playing politics with kids health,” said the statement released by Marissa Perry, the governor's communications director.

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