California Bill Would Ban Police Face Coverings

California State Senators Scott Wiener and Jesse Arreguin have introduced the 'No Secret Police Act,' which would make it a misdemeanor for local, state, and federal law enforcement officers to cover their faces during official duties, except for SWAT teams, medical needs, or during natural disasters. The bill also mandates visible identification on officer uniforms. This legislation follows recent federal immigration raids in California, where masked and unidentified officers detained over 100 people, raising public fear and distrust. Proponents say the law is needed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public trust, and to prevent law enforcement from acting as 'secret police' or being mistaken for vigilantes. Critics, including federal officials and California Republicans, argue that officers need face coverings for protection against retaliation and doxxing. The measure is being debated as protests continue against the Trump administration's immigration policies and the deployment of federal forces in California.