Governor says Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy, other magical creatures considered essential
The Easter bunny hands out candy during the North Valley Eagles Easter egg hunt in Columbia Falls. (Hungry Horse News file photo)
Gov. Steve Bullock has designated that the Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy and other magical creatures are free to conduct their normal activities and travel through Montana as long as they follow social distancing.
“I recognize this is a difficult time for families across Montana,” Bullock said. “Right now, parents are having to explain the many recent changes and challenges in their children’s lives. I believe it’s especially important we remember to find ways to bring joy into our homes. We must look for the goodness that surrounds us in each day all throughout this crisis.”
The announcement came ahead of the Easter weekend, and noting that the “Easter Bunny performs the essential services of hiding Easter eggs, supporting the chocolate-egg industry, and bringing springtime joy to Montanans all over the state.”
The directive also says that, “all dental services, including magical ones, are considered essential services, especially during a time of increased consumption of chocolate eggs, yellow Peeps, and other related spring treats.”
Under the directive, visits to homes for magical purposes are considered essential travel. Magical entities, including but not limited to elves, unicorns, and friendly dragons, are also considered essential workers, provided they maintain a comfortable 6-foot distance.
Magical entities must leave behind a gift — eggs, chocolates, or the fair market value of a baby tooth — at every home they visit.
The governor’s office notes that the directive does not modify, abridge, or limit the effect of any other statute or administrative rule regulating magical entities.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the state is under a stay-at-home order until at least April 24 only allowing for essential activities.