California lawmakers have passed a controversial measure that would prohibit most law enforcement officers from covering their faces while on duty — a move that police leaders warn could jeopardize officer safety.
The bill, approved on September 11, now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. If signed into law, it would forbid local and federal officers, including immigration enforcement agents, from wearing neck gators, ski masks or other face coverings while performing official duties. Exceptions would be made for undercover officers, medical masks like N95 respirators or tactical gear used in emergencies.
The legislation comes in response to recent immigration raids in the Los Angeles area, where some federal agents concealed their identities during enforcement actions connected to President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plan. While proponents claim the measure is needed to reassure the public, opponents point out that no state has ever enacted such a sweeping restriction — and that it could put officers directly in harm’s way…