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Gianforte Announces New Health Department Director

Adam Meier, who was nominated to direct the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.
Gov. Greg Gianforte's office
Adam Meier, who was nominated to direct the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Republican Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte today announced his pick for state health department director.

Gianforte tapped Adam Meier to lead the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, which manages Child Protective Services, the state Medicaid program and various other programs for low-income Montanans.

Meier led Kentucky Health and Family Services from May 2018 to December 2019, according to a news release. During that time, the state tried to implement expanded Medicaid rules that would’ve required some enrollees to work, go to school or volunteer at least 80 hours per month to keep their coverage. The requirements were blocked by a judge then rescinded by recently-elected Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear in 2019.

The Montana Legislature passed similar Medicaid expansion work requirements in 2019 that are awaiting federal approval.

Meier also served as deputy chief of staff for former Republican Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin.