A new New York law prohibiting most local, state, and federal law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings while interacting with the public is now in effect, setting the stage for an ongoing legal battle with the U.S. Department of Justice.
A New York law requiring most law enforcement officers to keep their faces visible while performing public duties officially took effect Friday, introducing new identification requirements for local, state, and many federal officers operating within the state.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the law’s implementation shortly after midnight.
“NEW YORKERS: As of 12:00 AM, New York’s law prohibiting most law enforcement officials from wearing masks while carrying out their duties is now in effect,” Hochul wrote on social media. “New Yorkers have a right to know who is exercising law enforcement authority in their communities.”
Law aims to increase transparency
The legislation generally prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing masks or other face coverings that conceal their identities while interacting with the public during official duties.
The law includes exceptions for protective equipment worn for health, environmental, or safety reasons.
Supporters of the measure, including Hochul, have said the law is intended to promote accountability and ensure the public can identify officers exercising police powers.
Federal government challenges law
The law has already become the subject of competing lawsuits between New York State and the federal government.
The U.S. Department of Justice has challenged the statute, arguing New York lacks authority to regulate how federal law enforcement officers perform their duties. Federal officials contend that some officers wear face coverings to protect themselves and their families from harassment, retaliation, or being identified online.
New York has filed its own lawsuit defending the law, arguing the state has the authority to establish standards governing law enforcement interactions occurring within its borders.
The litigation is expected to determine how the law applies to federal agencies operating in New York.
Key Points
• New York’s law restricting most law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings during public interactions took effect Friday.
• Gov. Kathy Hochul said the law ensures “New Yorkers have a right to know who is exercising law enforcement authority in their communities.”
• The law is already facing a legal challenge from the U.S. D
