Trenton, New Jersey. New Jersey lawmakers are advancing legislation that would prohibit federal and local law enforcement officers from covering their faces while interacting with the public, responding to concerns about masked U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations under the Trump administration. The bill, introduced by Sen. Benjie Wimberly, follows a rise in ICE raids across the state over the last 10 months, with some agents appearing without identification and with their faces concealed.
Wimberly said masked agents have created fear in immigrant communities and raised the risk of criminals impersonating federal officers. The measure would bar officers from wearing masks or disguises during public interactions, with exceptions for undercover operations, face shields that do not obscure identity, and medical masks. Violations could result in fines up to $1,000, six months in jail, or both.
Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill has previously expressed support for requiring law enforcement officers to identify themselves, citing reports of ICE agents arriving at schools and workplaces “dressed for Afghanistan.” California recently enacted a similar law, prompting a lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice, which argues states cannot regulate federal agents.
New Jersey lawmakers expect their proposal would also face court challenges. Legal experts note that federal supremacy rules could block the state from imposing requirements on ICE. Still, supporters, including Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, say the bill aims to build public trust by ensuring accountability and preventing impersonation.
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