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Mass. lawmaker’s bill would ban ICE agents from wearing masks

CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES, JUL 9 – Democrats aim to increase transparency by banning face masks for ICE agents amid a 700% rise in assaults, with over 40 lawmakers cosponsoring related bills.

  • Massachusetts State Representative James K. Hawkins filed a bill to ban law enforcement officers, including ICE agents, from wearing masks during public interactions.
  • The bill responds to growing concerns over masked ICE agents conducting detainments in Massachusetts and nationwide, causing public fear and mistrust according to Hawkins and other Democrats.
  • Exceptions would allow masks for medical reasons, environmental hazards, covert operations, and SWAT teams, while the Department of Homeland Security and figures like ICE Director Todd Lyons defend mask use for officer safety.
  • Todd Lyons stated at a June press conference that he will not let officers risk their safety over public dislike of immigration enforcement, while critics warn mask use complicates accountability and poses impersonation risks.
  • If passed, the bill would create misdemeanor penalties for violations and require DHS to investigate complaints and report annually to Congress, aiming to increase transparency but facing opposition from law enforcement advocates.
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Independent Sentinel broke the news in on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
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