Modesto has reached a tentative settlement in a lawsuit challenging its controversial ordinance banning face coverings and certain protective equipment at public demonstrations, potentially ending a months-long legal battle over protesters’ First Amendment rights.
City officials announced Tuesday that a settlement in principle had been reached in the lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California on behalf of the Pacific Media Workers Guild and three individuals against the city and Modesto Police Chief Brandon Gillespie.
As part of the proposed agreement, the Modesto City Council will consider removing the ordinance’s prohibition on face coverings, creating an exemption allowing journalists to wear protective equipment while covering public assemblies and modifying existing restrictions on helmets…