Senate Bill 627, introduced by State Senator Scott Wiener (D–San Francisco), is making its way through the California Legislature while debates continue over state and federal law enforcement roles. The bill would ban officers from wearing face coverings during operations, following recent immigration raids by masked federal agents. Senator Wiener called those raids “terrifying,” according to ABC10.
The measure includes exemptions for medical needs, SWAT operations, and undercover work but does not cover the California Highway Patrol.
Law Enforcement Pushback
Several law enforcement groups oppose the bill, warning it could leave officers open to personal lawsuits by removing legal immunity. Brian Marvel, president of the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), argued that the proposal puts local officers in a tough spot, especially when they’re caught up in federal immigration actions.
“Officers that are wearing masks in good faith are going to lose their qualified immunity, and unfortunately, we’re a very litigious society, and any opportunity to sue a police officer or police department or a local agency, it happens,” Marvel told ABC10.
Police groups fear SB 627 will increase lawsuits and complicate day-to-day responsibilities.
Concerns Over Amendments
Opposition has grown since lawmakers introduced amendments that could remove qualified immunity from officers who “knowingly and willfully” violate the mask rule, according to a letter sent Monday to state lawmakers and Governor Newsom’s office, cited by KCRA.
The California Police Chiefs Association echoed those concerns. Its president, Jason Salazar, said the bill risks complicating police work since local officers aren’t responsible for the federal tactics being challenged. He stressed their focus remains on public safety and local security.
Proponents Stay Firm
Despite criticism, supporters remain committed. Sen. Wiener responded directly:
“As long as law enforcement are following the law and the policies set by their departments, they’ll have nothing to worry about under SB 627.”
Wiener said the bill pushes transparency and accountability as mask-wearing becomes more common among ICE agents. Yet, not everyone agrees. Gregory Bovino, Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol’s El Centro Sector, argued that legal restrictions won’t replace the need to protect agents facing a surge in assaults.
A Federal Effort in Parallel
While California debates SB 627, a federal measure led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla is also moving forward. His proposal seeks to increase officer identification and improve public visibility during interactions with law enforcement.
Leave a Reply