California lawmakers approved a bill Thursday that would ban federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing masks during raids, sending the legislation to Gov. Gavin Newsom (D).
The proposal, which passed the Legislature after months of debate, targets face coverings used to conceal officers’ identities. It would not restrict surgical masks, transparent coverings, or safety gear such as helmets and respirators. If signed, all law enforcement agencies operating in California would be required to implement policies meeting the new standard by July 2026.
Critics of ICE argue that masks intimidate immigrant communities, especially amid President Trump’s nationwide immigration crackdown. Los Angeles has been a focal point for raids and mass protests, where the administration deployed National Guard troops and Marines to protect federal property.
The Trump administration defends the use of masks as necessary for officer safety. “I don’t particularly like masks, but the ICE officers need the mask because their families are being doxed,” Trump’s border adviser Tom Homan said at the White House last month.
Newsom’s office has not indicated whether he will sign the measure. In July, he said his team was reviewing the bill’s constitutionality. ICE did not respond to requests for comment.
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