In the last several months, we have seen a rise in arrests by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) in our Commonwealth. The recent practice of ICE agents covering their faces and concealing their identities while carrying out official duties poses significant concerns. Not only has this method eroded public trust, but impersonations of law enforcement have increased.

Several high-profile and alarming incidents involving individuals impersonating law enforcement officers and federal agents—including the targeted assassination of state legislators in Minnesota— demonstrate the danger of masked law enforcement.  

The current lack of clear visual identification protocols in our statutes undermines the integrity of legitimate enforcement operations and decreases public safety. This legislation will create appropriate standards for law enforcement departments and agencies operating within our Commonwealth. 

Key Provisions 

Mandatory Identification: Law enforcement officers and agents acting within the scope of their duties must wear clearly visible identification that includes: 

• A badge with name, badge number, and department or agency  

• A department or agency issued uniform 

Prohibition on Masking: Officers and agents acting within the scope of their duties may not wear masks, facial coverings, or other garments that obscure their identity. 

Criminal Penalties: Officers and agents who violate these provisions will be subject to criminal penalties. 

Civil Penalties: Failure to identify or concealing identity may be grounds for a civil cause of action. 

Exceptions: Appropriate exceptions will apply, such as: 

• Surgical or N95 respirators designed to prevent the transmission of airborne diseases, 
• Undercover officers or agents investigating serious criminal conduct. 

Public safety measures must evolve to address an ever-changing landscape. The need for transparency in law enforcement has never been more urgent.  

Please join us in co-sponsoring this critical legislation.