The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.735, which addresses the concealment of identity in public. It establishes that individuals who conceal their identity with a robe, mask, or other disguise may be guilty of a misdemeanor, unless such concealment is based on religious beliefs, incidental to amusement or entertainment, or for protection from weather, smoke, gas, or other airborne toxins, or for medical treatment.
Additionally, the bill creates specific exceptions for law enforcement officers, stating that the concealment provisions do not apply to peace officers or federal law enforcement officers while they are performing their official duties. These exceptions include situations where an undercover officer needs to conceal their identity to maintain the integrity of an investigation or ensure their safety, as well as for members of a tactical response team who may need to wear a face mask to prevent serious permanent disfigurement.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 609.735