ICE Agent Ban On Wearing Masks Advances

A California bill aimed at banning law enforcement agents from wearing masks while on duty has advanced after it was approved by a legislative committee on Tuesday.

The “No Secret Police Act”, introduced by state Senator Scott Wiener, would prohibit law enforcement at all levels from concealing their identities.

Why It Matters

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has faced increasing criticism in recent months for permitting its agents to conduct immigration enforcement operations while wearing plain clothes and face coverings.

Agency officials maintain that masks are necessary to protect agents’ identities and shield their families from death threats.

The agency is also under pressure as President Donald Trump has pledged to deport millions of migrants living in the United States without legal status.

What To Know

Under Senate Bill 627, federal agents who conceal their faces while performing official duties could be charged with a misdemeanor under the new proposal.

The bill, which was introduced in June, would include exemptions for SWAT teams and officers wearing medical masks during natural disasters such as wildfires. Transparent riot gear would also be permitted, as it does not hide an officer’s face.

The legislation follows criticism that ICE agents have been hiding their faces while conducting raids under the Trump administration’s crackdown.

ICE agents are not required to wear body cameras, and they are permitted to use unmarked vehicles and to cover their faces.

This is a developing story. More to follow.