ID S1246

Law enforcement officers are prohibited from wearing facial coverings that conceal their identity while performing duties, including balaclavas, tactical masks, gaiters, and ski masks

Exemptions include undercover operations, tactical operations requiring protective gear, SWAT team activities, identity protection during prosecution, occupational health and safety requirements, and reasonable accommodations

Medical masks (N95, surgical), translucent face shields, motorcycle helmets, underwater equipment, and laser-protective eyewear are not considered prohibited facial coverings

Willful violations are punishable as an infraction or misdemeanor; officers who commit assault, battery, false arrest, or related offenses while illegally masked lose immunity and face minimum $10,000 statutory damages

Effective date: July 1, 2026 (declared as emergency legislation)