Law enforcement: masks.
Vote required
Majority
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Chaptered
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Create an account to take a stance, submit a written position, or contact your legislator.
Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed Assembly
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill establishes rules regarding law enforcement officers’ use of facial coverings. It prohibits officers from wearing masks that obscure their identity unless specifically authorized, such as during undercover operations or tactical situations. The bill requires law enforcement agencies to adopt and publicly post written policies limiting facial coverings and establishes penalties for violations. It also addresses potential civil liability for officers who use facial coverings in a way that leads to legal claims.
Key provisions
- Requires law enforcement agencies to adopt and publicly post written policies regarding the use of facial coverings by July 1, 2026.
- Prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings that obscure their identity unless specifically exempted.
- Defines ‘facial covering’ and lists specific exemptions, including medical masks and protective gear.
- Establishes civil penalties for officers who violate the policy and commit tortious conduct.
- Creates a process for public challenge and review of agency policies regarding facial coverings.
- Requires agencies to maintain a policy limiting facial coverings by July 1, 2026, to be exempt from penalties.
- Addresses potential liability for officers who use facial coverings in a way that leads to legal claims.
- Declares the provisions of the bill to be severable.
Who is affected
Bill text
Read the latest version inline or switch to a previous version.
Text extraction is in progress. View the official source.
Arguments
Reasons offered for and against this legislation.
Arguments in favor
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours