WASHINGTON—Both houses of the California Legislature have passed a bill that bans federal law enforcement officers from wearing masks while performing their duties, with criminal penalties for noncompliance.
The bill, SB-627, bans any law enforcement officer or agent from wearing a “facial covering that conceals or obscures their facial identity in the performance of their duties,” with a few exceptions—such as motorcycle helmets, facial coverings for “SWAT” officers, and N-95 medical masks to protect against COVID-19.
Violations of the bill would be punishable by either a fine or the charge of a criminal misdemeanor.
In addition, the bill strips qualified immunity from law enforcement officers and agents who, while wearing a mask, commit “assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, abuse of process, or malicious prosecution,” with a minimum penalty of $10,000 if they are found liable….
California Legislature Passes Bill Banning ICE Officers From Wearing Masks
