California Assembly Passes Bill to Curb Masked Law Enforcement, Including Federal Agents

SB 627 passed the Assembly on a 44–29 vote and would generally make it a crime for officers to wear facial coverings while on duty. The bill applies to federal, local, and out-of-state agencies operating in California, with an exemption added for the California Highway Patrol. Recent amendments also remove qualified-immunity protections for officers who knowingly and willfully violate the face-covering ban, drawing sharp opposition from major police groups. Supporters argue the policy is needed to ensure visible identification and accountability during immigration enforcement operations. Critics contend California cannot enforce such rules on federal personnel and warn agents use masks for safety amid reports of rising assaults on federal officers.