California Democrats Propose Law Banning Masks for Law Enforcement Officers

California Democratic state Senators Scott Wiener and Jesse Arreguin have introduced the "No Secret Police Act," legislation that would ban local, state, and federal law enforcement officers from wearing face masks or coverings while on duty, with exceptions for SWAT teams and medical or safety masks during disasters like wildfires. The bill aims to prevent officers from concealing their identities during enforcement operations, which the lawmakers argue creates fear and distrust within communities. This move follows criticism of ICE agents using masks to hide their identities during raids, which ICE officials justify as necessary to protect agents and their families from threats, a concern voiced by border officials. The legislation also requires officers to display identifying information on their uniforms to increase transparency and accountability. Critics say the bill is a response to federal actions under President Donald Trump's administration targeting undocumented migrants, while supporters frame it as a measure against "secret police" behavior and a step to protect immigrant communities. The bill permits certain types of riot gear that do not obscure an officer's face, balancing public safety concerns with accountability.