California has become the first state to ban most law enforcement officers, including federal immigration agents, from wearing masks while on duty.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the law Saturday in Los Angeles, sparking immediate backlash from Trump administration officials.
Newsom’s Statement
Newsom said the law is a response to recent masked immigration raids in Los Angeles.
He argued the sight of unmarked vehicles and masked officers evokes “a dystopian sci-fi movie.”
Gavin Newsom
“Immigrants have rights, and we have the right to push back,” Newsom declared.
The governor noted that 27% of Californians are foreign-born.
He framed the law as protecting communities and restoring public trust.
Newsom dismissed federal claims of increased officer assaults as “misinformation.”
He said no proof has been provided to justify masking agents.
Federal Pushback
Federal officials quickly rejected California’s new restrictions.
Bill Essayli, acting U.S. attorney for Southern California, said the law has no effect.
He said agents will “continue to protect their identities” despite the ban.
Bill Essayli
Essayli added the state lacks jurisdiction over federal operations.
He criticized Newsom’s rhetoric as reckless and referred comments to the Secret Service.
Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin also condemned the law.
She called it “a flagrant attempt to endanger our officers.”
DHS Response
McLaughlin said federal agents face escalating violence during enforcement.
She cited incidents of rocks and Molotov cocktails thrown at officers.
She argued masking protects them from being doxxed by extremists.
Tricia McLaughlin
McLaughlin accused “sanctuary politicians” of undermining federal security.
She said the rhetoric contributes to more assaults on immigration officers.
DHS vowed its personnel will not stop wearing protective masks.
Officials warned the law puts both officers and communities at risk.
The Law’s Scope
The measure bans face coverings like ski masks and neck gaiters.
It applies to both local and federal officers, including ICE.
Exceptions exist for undercover work, tactical operations, and medical masks.
Notably, the law does not apply to state police.
Supporters said the ban will help prevent impersonation of officers.
They also said it will improve transparency and accountability in policing.
Broader Legislative Agenda
Newsom also signed a law limiting ICE agents’ access to schools.
Agents must now present a valid warrant to enter campuses or hospitals.
Schools must notify parents and staff when federal agents are on site.
Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi said the measure creates “Safe Haven Schools.”
California lawmakers also allocated $50 million to fight Trump policies in court.
The funds have already fueled more than 40 lawsuits against the administration.
