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3d ago

California ‘Unmasking’ Bill Adds CHP Exemption, Strips Qualified Immunity for Willful Violations

Police unions warn the changes would expose officers to personal lawsuits, jeopardizing safety.

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An ICE Special Response Team member stands guard outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, while protesters gather outside to denounce the ICE, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, operations, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in downtown Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)
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Overview

  • SB 627, introduced after images of masked federal immigration operations, now applies to federal and local agencies but excludes the California Highway Patrol and other state-level units under a new amendment.
  • The latest draft would remove qualified immunity under state law for officers who knowingly and willfully violate the face-covering ban, drawing formal opposition from major police groups.
  • PORAC and the California Police Chiefs Association argue the bill would force officers to second-guess decisions and could subject them to personal civil liability.
  • U.S. Border Patrol El Centro Sector Chief Gregory Bovino says California cannot bind federal agents and defends face coverings, citing a reported 1,000% rise in assaults on federal officers.
  • Lawmakers face a Friday midnight deadline to act on the bill, as a separate federal proposal from Sen. Alex Padilla to require clear identification for immigration agents remains in committee.