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NJ S4976
Bill
Status
12/11/2025
Primary Sponsor
Benjie Wimberly
Click for details
AI Summary
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Law enforcement officers (federal, state, county, and municipal) are prohibited from wearing masks or disguises when interacting with the public during official duties, with exceptions for undercover assignments, face shields that don't conceal identity, physician-approved medical masks, and smoke protection during emergencies
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Officers must provide sufficient identification before detaining or arresting anyone by wearing a department-issued uniform with agency insignia, showing a photo ID card, displaying a badge or numbered identification, or verbally stating their name and agency
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Identification requirements are waived when disclosure could compromise an investigation, a supervisor determines stealth is necessary, or an officer reasonably believes their personal safety is at risk
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Plain-clothes officers or those in unmarked vehicles may still intervene in urgent public safety matters without meeting the identification requirements
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The Attorney General is directed to issue guidelines to implement the act, which takes effect immediately
Legislative Description
Requires law enforcement officer to reveal facial identity during certain public interactions and to present sufficient identification prior to arresting or detaining person.
Law and Public Safety
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
12/11/2025