Los Angeles, CA – California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law banning most law enforcement officers, including federal immigration agents, from concealing their faces during operations, drawing an immediate rebuke from the Department of Homeland Security, which declared it would not comply.
The Democrat party has gone from wanting to put people in jail for not wearing masks to wanting to put people in jail for wearing masks.
The new California law prohibits officers from wearing identity-concealing coverings such as ski masks and balaclavas during enforcement actions. Exceptions remain for undercover assignments, tactical teams, and medical protection.
Newsom said the measure is intended to increase transparency and accountability, particularly in immigration enforcement operations across the state.
Within hours of the signing, DHS issued a forceful statement on social media, calling the law “unconstitutional” and a direct threat to the safety of federal personnel. Officials pointed to what they described as a sharp increase in assaults on Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and warned that exposing officers’ identities could put them and their families at risk of harassment, doxxing, and physical harm.
The measure is part of a package of state laws designed to restrict how federal immigration enforcement is carried out in California. Supporters argue that immigrant communities deserve protection from anonymous raids and arrests, while critics say the statute undermines federal authority and leaves officers more vulnerable in the field.
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Legal analysts say the law is likely to be tested in court, since federal operations typically supersede state restrictions. For now, DHS has made clear it does not intend to alter its practices in California, setting the stage for a potential legal and political clash between Sacramento and Washington.
The statute is scheduled to take effect January 1 unless a federal challenge or injunction halts its enforcement.
Key Points
- Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law banning most law enforcement officers, including federal agents, from concealing their faces during operations.
- The Department of Homeland Security vowed not to comply, citing officer safety concerns and risks of doxxing.
- Legal experts say the law could face challenges over federal preemption and enforceability.