California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) recently signed a package of laws aimed at restricting federal immigration enforcement, including a measure that limits mask use by federal officers.
The most prominent measure, SB 627 — known as the No Secret Police Act — prohibits federal and local officers, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, from wearing masks while on duty.
The ban applies to ski masks, neck gaiters, and similar coverings, but makes exceptions for undercover work, medical use, and tactical operations. California’s state and local police are not affected. The law is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2026.
But federal officials immediately pushed back on Newsom and the state’s Democratic supermajority who passed the measures.
“The State of California has no jurisdiction over the federal government. If Newsom wants to regulate our agents, he must go through Congress,” acting US Attorney for the Central District of California noted on the X platform.
“I’ve directed our federal agencies that the law signed today has no effect on our operations. Our agents will continue to protect their identities,” he added. When can we expect CA to pass a law banning Antifa members from wearing masks while committing state and federal crimes? I’ll wait.”
The State of California has no jurisdiction over the federal government. If Newsom wants to regulate our agents, he must go through Congress.
I’ve directed our federal agencies that the law signed today has no effect on our operations. Our agents will continue to protect their… https://t.co/yqndOh7S62
— Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli (@USAttyEssayli) September 20, 2025
Critics contend the law is largely symbolic and intended for political messaging rather than practical effect. They warn that restricting mask use could endanger ICE officers, who have increasingly faced harassment, threats, and doxxing targeting both them and their families.
