California lawmakers pass ban on masks for federal immigration agents

Source: The Hill

09/12/25 10:09 AM ET


California lawmakers have sent legislation to Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) that could prohibit federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers from wearing masks while carrying out raids in the state. Newsom hasn’t said whether he will sign the bill, which received final approval in the Legislature on Thursday.

The governor’s office didn’t immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment Friday, but he said in July that his office was reviewing the constitutionality of the proposal. Critics have taken issue with ICE agents wearing face coverings while carrying out President Trump’s sweeping immigration crackdown in cities across the country. They argue the covering is meant as an intimidation tactic.

California — Los Angeles in particular — became a major focus of ICE operations over the summer as mass protests erupted in response to workplace raids. The president deployed National Guard troops and Marines to protect federal properties, sparking an ongoing court battle.

ICE didn’t immediately respond to The Hill’s request on the California legislation, but officials in the Trump administration have repeatedly defended the need for officers to protect their identities.

Read more: https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/5500425-california-immigration-law-enforcement-mask-policy/