New law prohibits face coverings for law enforcement in Washington state
OLYMPIA, Washington — Law enforcement officers in Washington state are now prohibited from using masks or other face coverings to conceal their identity when interacting with the public, following the signing of a new law Thursday.
The measure, which takes effect immediately, addresses concerns over recent federal immigration enforcement actions in which agents, including those from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, have been accused of concealing their identities during operations.
Under the law, officers who violate the policy could face civil action and be held liable for damages.
“This is a question of accountability and public trust,” said Sen. Javier Valdez, a Seattle Democrat. “No more fear, no more intimidation, and no more hiding your identity when interacting with the public. The public deserves to know who you are.”
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“Law enforcement’s job is to protect us, but ICE hides from public accountability,” Gov. Bob Ferguson said. “For the safety of the public and law enforcement, Washingtonians need to know that they are interacting with legitimate officers.”
The bill signing was briefly disrupted by protesters, some of whom accused the governor of cooperating with federal immigration authorities.
The law broadly restricts identity-concealing face coverings, but includes several exceptions. Officers can still wear masks for legitimate purposes, such as undercover work, religious reasons, or safety gear. This includes N95 masks, clear face shields, helmets and protective gear typically used by specialized units.
The legislation faced opposition at hearings, with critics arguing the state lacked the authority to regulate federal agencies and warning the policy could put officers and their families at risk.
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“What action is taken when people break the law and put these agents – whether state or federal – in danger by posting their faces on social media, doxxing them and attacking their families? state Rep. Jenny Graham, R-Spokane, said during a committee hearing in February.
Supporters have said the law is a necessary step toward greater accountability and believe it will withstand legal challenges.
“Washington state has a history of winning cases in court, and this law will give us a tool to fight back,” said Sen. Rebecca Saldaña, a Seattle Democrat. “This gives local officers and community members the opportunity to ask questions and speak out if this happens again.”
Some community members also welcomed the measure, saying it could ease fears over immigration enforcement.
“This is a huge step for us to feel safer as a community,” said Sanjuanita Tovar, a Seattle resident. “At least people can see faces and identify badges.”
