SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California has enacted a new law prohibiting federal immigration officers from disguising their identities while performing their duties, following the signing of legislation by Governor Gavin Newsom. This law, effective January 1, is part of a broader movement to counter tactics that the governor refers to as “secret police” practices, which gained prominence during the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement efforts.
Senator Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, introduced the legislation known as the No Secret Police Act, SB 627. He emphasized that the bill seeks to curtail racial profiling and authoritarian policing. In a statement, Wiener expressed strong disapproval of tactics that undermine constitutional rights, asserting that California is responding to such actions with resilience and determination.
The legislation passed with opposition from Republican lawmakers and police unions, who expressed concerns about the implications of the ban extending to local law enforcement officers. Wiener acknowledged the feedback and indicated plans to refine the law to ensure it accommodates officers acting in good faith while striving for public safety.
“The fear and aggression instigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement under the previous administration are pressing California to adapt swiftly,” Wiener stated. The law includes exemptions for certain circumstances, allowing masked officers in specialized units such as SWAT teams, undercover operations, and situations requiring protective face coverings, like gas masks or surgical masks.
Penalties for violations of this new rule can range from civil infractions to misdemeanors, especially if the violation is paired with misconduct involving abuse of power. Wiener added, “Residents shouldn’t have to live in fear of masked officers who can operate without accountability. As government overreach affects daily life—impacting workplaces, communities, and schools—California is committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting individual freedoms.”
In addition to this measure, on the same day, Newsom approved legislation aimed at restricting immigration enforcement activities in sensitive locations such as schools and hospitals, further solidifying California’s stance against aggressive immigration tactics.
This story is still developing, and updates may follow as additional information becomes available.
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