NJ A1743

Law enforcement officers in New Jersey are prohibited from wearing masks or disguises when interacting with the public during official duties, with exceptions for undercover assignments, tactical operations, retaliation threats, protective face shields, medical masks, and emergency protective gear.

Officers must provide sufficient identification before detaining or arresting any individual through one of four methods: 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.

Identification requirements do not apply when disclosure would compromise an investigation, when a supervisor determines stealth is necessary, or when an officer reasonably believes their personal safety is at risk.

Plain-clothes officers or those in unmarked vehicles may still intervene in urgent public safety matters without prior identification.

The Attorney General is directed to issue guidelines or a directive to implement the act, which takes effect immediately upon passage.