DOJ files complaint challenging California law that prohibits ICE agents from masking
The law, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, also requires agents to identify themselves and avoid using accessories that cover their faces
In response to SB 627 (“Anti-Secret Police Act”), which prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and most law enforcement agencies from wearing masks to conceal their identity during operations, with exceptions for “absolutely necessary” cases, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against California, Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Robert Bonta.
The law, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, also requires agents to identify themselves with a visible badge or name, which is why the White House had already expressed its opposition.
In that regard, the Department of Justice said that the so-called Anti-Secret Police Act and Anti-Vigilante Act “not only constitutes illegal attempts to discriminate against and regulate the federal government, but, as alleged in the complaint, threatens the safety of the federal government. agents, who have faced an unprecedented wave of harassment, disclosure of personal information, and even violence.”
“Threatening agents with prosecution sensitive simply for protecting their identity and that of their families also inhibits federal law enforcement and compromises police operations. law enforcement discriminate against the federal government and are designed to endanger our agents. These laws cannot stand.”
“The Department of Justice will strongly protect the privacy and safety of law enforcement officers against unconstitutional state laws like California's,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department's Civil Division.
“Attacks against federal agents have skyrocketed in recent months, “In part due to irresponsible political rhetoric that seeks to delegitimize our courageous agents,” stated Bill Essayli, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Central District of California."Unconstitutional laws like this further endanger our brave men and women who protect our community. Our immigration enforcement efforts will continue unabated and will not be hindered by unconstitutional state laws enacted by irresponsible politicians."