HELENA — State Medical Officer Greg Holzman, who was often the face of the state’s COVID-19 policy and response under former Gov. Steve Bullock, has submitted his resignation.
In a letter dated Thursday, Holzman said he plans to remain at his position until April 16, to help with vaccine efforts and assist with the transition to his replacement.
“I have truly enjoyed my time working within DPHHS,” he wrote to Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Adam Meier. “I believe we have accomplished some exciting projects and I know there are many more to be completed.”
Holzman didn’t give a specific reason for departing, although he did say he plans to continue his career in medicine and public health “from outside state government,” and hopes to be a “strong partner” with DPHHS.
Holzman’s resignation letter came one day before Gov. Greg Gianforte issued a directive lifting a statewide face-mask mandate. The new governor also signed into law a bill this week that protects businesses from lawsuits alleging damages related to COVID-19 infections.
Last year, Holzman appeared often at news conferences next to then-Gov. Bullock, urging people to wear face-masks to stop the spread of the disease.
Holzman could not immediately be reached for comment.
The department also has not yet said how or whether it plans to find a replacement for Holzman.
