Attorneys General, Senators Back ICE ID Requirements

A coalition of 21 state attorneys general, including Michigan's Dana Nessel and Arizona's Kris Mayes, is urging Congress to pass the VISIBLE Act, which would prohibit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing masks and concealing their identities during enforcement actions. The legislation is supported by Senators Alex Padilla and Cory Booker and would require ICE officers to display proper identification and agency insignia. The attorneys general and civil rights advocates argue that current ICE practices, such as using masked, plainclothes agents in unmarked vehicles, have led to public confusion, wrongful detentions, and increased risks of impersonation and violence. They contend these tactics erode community trust and are inconsistent with civil rights and the principles of a free society. ICE defends the use of masks as necessary for agent safety, but critics say transparency can be maintained without compromising security. The coalition's call highlights broad concerns about the impact of ICE enforcement tactics on public safety and trust.