Trenton, NJ – A new proposal in the Statehouse is drawing sharp attention as lawmakers move to restrict when officers can cover their faces while engaging with the public.
The measure, introduced in the Assembly, would bar officers from wearing any mask or disguise during official interactions except under narrow conditions.
Supporters argue the bill reinforces transparency between officers and residents by limiting face coverings during routine enforcement duties.
Key Points
- Bill prohibits officers from wearing masks or disguises during public interactions.
- Exceptions include undercover work, medical necessity, protective shields, and smoke emergencies.
- Violations would be treated as a disorderly persons offense under state law.
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson introduced the bill alongside Assemblywoman Alixon Collazos-Gill and Assemblyman Gabriel Rodriguez as part of a broader push to clarify when officers may conceal their identities during official duties.
Under the proposal, an officer interacting with the public would be required to keep their face visible unless the assignment involves undercover operations or a specific safety or medical justification.
The text outlines exceptions for protective shields that do not obscure the face, medical-grade masks supported by a physician’s statement, and masks used during smoke exposure in a declared emergency.
Officers violating the measure would face a disorderly persons charge, which carries potential fines or jail time under state law.
