Federal Judge Blocks California’s ICE Mask Ban While Upholding Identification Requirements

A federal judge on Monday halted California's attempt to ban federal immigration agents from wearing masks during operations, ruling that the state cannot selectively impose restrictions on federal officers that do not apply to its own law enforcement. The decision maintains a legal status quo where U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel may continue concealing their faces, though they must comply with a separate, upheld state mandate to display names or badge numbers. Judge Christina Snyder issued the preliminary injunction against the 'No Secret Police Act,' citing the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause because the law unlawfully discriminated against the federal government by exempting state and local police from the same restrictions.

The ruling follows a period of intensified federal immigration enforcement characterized by the use of masked agents and unmarked vehicles. Federal officials argue that masking is essential to protect agents from doxing, harassment, and physical attacks. Conversely, California officials and civil rights advocates contend that the practice creates a climate of fear and shields agents from accountability for potential abuses. In response to the ruling, state legislators announced plans to introduce revised legislation that would extend the mask ban to all law enforcement officers, potentially resolving the constitutional issue of disparate treatment.

While the mask ban was blocked, the court denied the Trump administration's request to halt the 'No Vigilantes Act,' which requires all law enforcement officers in California to provide clear identification. This identification requirement is scheduled to take effect on February 19, pending any further appeals to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The Department of Justice characterized the mask ruling as a key victory for officer safety, while California’s executive branch framed the identification requirement as a win for the rule of law.