California bans Facemasks for ICE officers

California Bans ICE Agents from Wearing Masks

California's legislature has passed a bill that bans federal law enforcement officers from wearing masks while on duty, 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 exceptions for motorcycle helmets and SWAT officers, along with N-95 masks for COVID-19.

Assuming it's signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), violators could face either a fine or charged with a misdemeanor.

The bill also strips law enforcement officers from qualified immunity for officer and agents who commit "assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, abuse of process, or malicious prosecution" while wearing a mask, and could face a fine up to $10,000.

"ICE law enforcement officers wear masks to prevent doxing, which can (and has) placed them and their families at risk. All ICE law enforcement officers carry badges and credentials and will identify themselves when required for public safety or legal necessity," the agency wrote on its website in the FAQ area.

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