PA HB599

Creates new criminal offense of "masked intimidation" for persons who, while wearing a facial covering, intentionally harass, intimidate, or threaten others with intent to cause reasonable fear for physical safety

Classifies the offense as a third-degree misdemeanor

Exempts facial coverings worn for legitimate purposes including: holiday costumes, personal safety, occupational requirements, weather protection, winter sports, theatrical productions, emergency situations, health protection (including limiting airborne illness spread), and religious garb

Defines "intimidate" to include interfering with constitutional rights based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or disability

Takes effect 60 days after enactment and includes explicit protection for First Amendment rights