The proposed bill amends the Michigan Penal Code by adding Section 396a, which mandates that law enforcement officers must wear an appropriate uniform while interacting with the public and prohibits them from wearing masks or personal disguises, except under specific circumstances. These exceptions include wearing a mask to prevent the transmission of airborne diseases, to protect against airborne toxins during a state of emergency, or for physical protection of the face. Violating this requirement would result in a misdemeanor charge, punishable by up to 90 days in jail or a fine of up to $500.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions related to the law enforcement officers and the types of masks that are permissible. It specifies that the term "appropriate uniform" includes displaying the officer's name or badge number, and it defines "mask" as any nontransparent material that covers the face or conceals identity, excluding face shields that do not obscure the wearer's face. The bill also states that these regulations do not apply to officers engaged in undercover assignments, which are defined as investigative activities using an assumed name or cover identity. The act will take effect 90 days after being enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 750.1, 750.568