LOS ANGELES — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has stated it will not comply with a new California law that prohibits most law enforcement officers from covering their faces while conducting official duties, KABC reported.
“To be clear: We will NOT comply with Gavin Newsom’s unconstitutional mask ban,” DHS stated via X.
To be clear: We will NOT comply with Gavin Newsom’s unconstitutional mask ban.
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) September 22, 2025
At a time that ICE law enforcement faces a 1,000% increase in assaults and their family members are being doxxed and targeted, the sitting Governor of California signed unconstitutional legislation… pic.twitter.com/8Me4OOP8t8
| STATE YOUR CASE: Should officers face charges for wearing face coverings during operations?
The No Secret Police Act (SB 627) is set to take effect in January,. The law was introduced following recent immigration raids in Los Angeles where federal agents wore masks while making arrests.
The new law prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing opaque facial coverings such as balaclavas, neck gaiters and ski masks that conceal their identity while on duty, with exceptions for undercover assignments, SWAT operations, protective gear used in tactical operations, medical masks and other safety equipment.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office said the measure is intended to promote transparency and accountability, specifically barring officers from concealing their identities during interactions with the public. The governor cited concerns over agents operating without visible badges or identification.
In a statement, DHS called the law “unconstitutional” and claimed it puts federal immigration officers at risk. The agency cited what it said was a more than 1,000% increase in assaults against officers, justifying the use of face coverings to protect agents from retaliation and harassment.
The law is expected to face legal challenges, with federal officials asserting jurisdictional authority over immigration enforcement and questioning the state’s ability to regulate how federal agents operate within its borders.
