SACRAMENTO, Calif (AP) — California is set to become the first state in the U.S. to ban most law enforcement, including federal immigration officers, from wearing masks during official activities. This bill, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, comes in the wake of contentious immigration raids that saw federal agents don facial coverings while conducting mass arrests in Los Angeles, igniting public outrage and protests.
The legislation, which disallows neck gaiters, ski masks, and other types of facial coverings for law enforcement actions, grants exceptions for undercover missions and public health mandates. However, it notably does not extend to state police. The law aims to bolster accountability and transparency in policing, emphasizing public trust in the wake of previous controversial tactics employed by immigration enforcers.
In signing the law, Newsom, flanked by state legislators and immigrant advocates, decried the use of masks by federal agents, insisting they contribute to an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. The bill’s supporters argue it is necessary to maintain the integrity of law enforcement practices and to help community members feel safe and secure.
Despite the law's signing, enforcement against federal agents remains unclear. Officials from the Department of Homeland Security have criticized the bill, labeling it as detrimental and insisting that it may place officers in greater danger during operations. They have underscored the need for law enforcement personnel to conceal their identities for safety reasons, especially in light of increasing public hostility towards immigration enforcement.
California's bold move reflects growing tensions between state policy and federal immigration efforts, continuing a trend of legislative actions aimed at protecting immigrants and opposing federal overreach. In addition to the mask ban, the state has implemented further protections for immigrant communities, including regulations that limit immigration enforcement's access to schools and medical facilities.
The bill is among a number of measures introduced this legislative session as California's lawmakers aim to safeguard progressive values against the backdrop of federal immigration policies that have sparked significant debate and division nationwide.
