California Law on Immigration Workers’ Face Coverings Delayed

The Los Angeles Police Department has announced that a new California law, which prohibits federal immigration workers from wearing face coverings, will not be enforced. This law, backed by Governor Gavin Newsom, primarily affects Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

Police Chief Jim McDonnell explained that the department will not issue citations or stop federal officers for breaching the state’s mask regulations. His reasoning revolves around safety concerns and the potential for escalating tensions among law enforcement agencies.

“That’s not a safe way to do business,” McDonnell stated, highlighting the absurdity of armed agencies confronting each other over what might be a minor infraction.

The law, known as the Secret Police Act, was signed by Newsom in September. It generally forbids law enforcement, including federal agents, from utilizing masks during official duties, though there are exceptions for undercover operations and necessary protective gear. Advocates argue this measure enhances transparency and prevents the implementation of covert policing methods in immigration activities.

However, both federal officials and some Republican leaders have harshly criticized the law, arguing it puts officers at risk by revealing their identities and unlawfully interferes with federal operations. The U.S. Department of Justice has challenged the law in court, asserting it violates the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause.

McDonnell underscored that the LAPD’s primary responsibility is public safety—not regulating federal agents involved in immigration enforcement. “ICE officers are doing their job, and for us to enforce mask mandates in that context isn’t practical,” he said.