CALIFORNIA, USA — California’s new law banning most law enforcement officers from wearing masks while on duty is now in effect, but the state has agreed not to enforce it as the measure faces a legal challenge.
The issue has been closely watched amid increased immigration enforcement throughout 2025. Senate Bill 627, authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), took effect Jan. 1 and prohibits local and federal law enforcement officers from wearing masks that cover their faces. California Highway Patrol officers are exempt.
Wiener announced the law’s start in a video posted on New Year’s Day, saying it is now illegal for ICE and other law enforcement agencies to cover their faces while operating in California…