SACRAMENTO, Calif (AP) — In a historic move, California has become the first state to enforce a ban on most law enforcement officers, including federal immigration agents, from covering their faces during official duties. This legislation was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on Saturday.
The ban is a direct reaction to a series of immigration raids conducted in Los Angeles, where federal agents were observed wearing masks while carrying out mass arrests. These operations sparked extensive protests throughout the city, prompting President Donald Trump to dispatch National Guard troops to assist.
The new law forbids face coverings such as neck gators and ski masks for local and federal agents but allows exceptions for undercover agents and medical masks like N95 respirators. State police are not included in this mandate.
Governor Newsom expressed that the legislation serves to counter federal overreach, stating, This measure is designed to increase transparency and accountability in law enforcement. However, how the state can enforce this ban on federal agents remains uncertain.
The Department of Homeland Security criticized the law, referring to it as despicable and claiming it endangers officers. Officials emphasized that agents have faced harassment and that the masks are essential for their safety and that of their families.
Despite federal resistance, proponents of the law believe it will help rebuild trust between the community and law enforcement. The legislation is part of a larger Democratic strategy to push back against the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which face substantial opposition in California.
The measure also accompanies other recent laws aimed at restricting immigration enforcement activities, such as preventing immigration agents from entering schools and healthcare facilities without valid warrants.
While the contentious nature of immigration enforcement remains a divisive topic, California’s bold step signals a commitment to uphold its progressive values amidst federal opposition.
