California Bans Most Law‑Enforcement Masks; DHS, ICE Resist

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 627, making California the first state to ban most law‑enforcement officers — including federal immigration agents — from wearing face coverings during operations. The law bars neck gaiters, ski masks and similar coverings while carving out exceptions for undercover officers, medical masks and tactical gear. The measure followed masked immigration raids in Los Angeles and was billed by supporters as increasing transparency and accountability in vulnerable communities. The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have publicly vowed not to comply, calling the law unconstitutional and saying masks protect agents from doxxing, gang retaliation and rising assaults. Local police leaders and Republican officials have criticized the bill as burdensome or unenforceable against federal agents and warned it could endanger officers. Supporters say the ban is needed for accountability, and legal challenges over state authority and enforcement are likely.