California lawmakers pass bill barring authorities from wearing face masks

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California lawmakers have approved new legislation that would restrict most law enforcement officers from covering their faces during official operations. The move comes in direct response to recent immigration enforcement activities in Los Angeles that drew national attention.

If signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, California would become the first state in the country to enact such a measure. However, legal questions remain about whether the state can enforce the rule on federal agents, who were at the center of the controversial raids.

The bill prohibits the use of items such as ski masks, neck gaiters, and other facial coverings by officers, including federal immigration enforcement personnel, while carrying out duties. Exceptions would remain in place for undercover agents, officers using medical-grade masks like N95s, or protective tactical gear.

Governor Newsom has criticized the use of masks by agents in the past, saying the practice erodes public trust, though he also acknowledged earlier this year that state authority over federal officers is limited. His office has said it does not typically comment on pending legislation, but he has until next month to make a decision.

Supporters Call the Bill a Public Safety Measure

Proponents argue the bill is necessary to prevent confusion, fear, and mistrust among the public. Assemblymember Juan Carrillo, vice chair of the Latino caucus, said:

“How is anyone supposed to reasonably believe they are law enforcement officers and not masked individuals attempting to cause harm? Imagine the fear of being pulled over at gunpoint by a group of masked people.”

Supporters also cited an opinion from constitutional law scholar Erwin Chemerinsky of the University of California, Berkeley, who wrote in the Sacramento Bee that while states cannot directly regulate federal agencies, federal employees are generally expected to comply with state rules unless doing so directly interferes with their duties.

Chemerinsky pointed out that immigration enforcement officers historically have not worn masks and that this had never previously created safety problems for them or the public.

Opposition Raises Safety Concerns

Critics of the bill, including Republican lawmakers and some law enforcement organizations, say the measure could put officers at greater risk.

“People who commit crimes hide their faces because they don’t want to be identified. Officers sometimes cover their faces to protect themselves from being targeted outside of work,” argued State Sen. Kelly Seyarto.

Federal officials defending the practice argue that agents have been increasingly harassed both in person and online as they carry out their duties, and that covering their identities helps protect them and their families.

A Growing National Debate

The issue has intensified amid ongoing debates about immigration enforcement and public trust in law enforcement. While some states are considering similar proposals, California has now taken the lead with the first bill of its kind to pass through a legislature.

The sight of masked agents during high-profile operations has fueled a broader national conversation about transparency, accountability, and safety. For supporters of the bill, masks erode public trust and instill unnecessary fear. For opponents, masks are seen as a practical layer of protection for officers and their families in an increasingly polarized environment.