Democratic lawmakers have introduced a bill that would prevent ICE agents from covering their faces while conducting immigration enforcement operations.
Introduced by New York Rep. Nydia Velazquez, the No Masks for ICE Act would make it illegal for federal agents to cover their faces in this context unless they are necessary for their safety or health. It would also require them to display their names and agency affiliation on their clothes. The Department of Homeland Security would have to set up discipline procedures for those who don't comply and submit an annual report to Congress.
"When agents are masked and anonymous, you cannot have accountability," said California Rep. Laura Friedman. "That's not how democracy works. That's not how our country works."
The initiative mirrors one by California lawmakers, which would make it a misdemeanor for local and state law enforcement officers to cover their faces during official duties.
The push for transparency comes on the heels of nationwide unease following federal immigration raids where agents have worn face coverings and unmarked uniforms. On June 6, immigration sweeps in Los Angeles, carried out by masked federal officers, led to over 100 detentions and ignited days of protest, AP News recalled.
Videos of officers grabbing individuals from the street while using unmarked vehicles fueled suspicions and fear. State Senators Scott Wiener and Jesse Arreguin announced the bill on June 10, saying the legislation is designed to protect public trust and prevent impersonation of law enforcement.
Citing raids across cities like San Francisco, San Diego, and Downey, Wiener said the anonymity of some agents felt more like "vigilante militia" than official police presence.
"They are grabbing people off our streets and disappearing people, and it's terrifying," Wiener said. "Law enforcement officers are public servants and people should be able to see their faces, see who they are, know who they are. Otherwise, there is no transparency and no accountability."
Moreover, NBC News reported that Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) agents have been instructed to keep tabs on incidents involving federal immigration officers following citizen reports of "attempted kidnappings."
The guidelines involve trying to verify the identities of people making the arrests and document events on body cameras if those claiming to be officers refuse to comply.
"In some cases, agents have reportedly refused to identify themselves, resulting in confusion, calls for service, and tensions between the public and law enforcement," reads a passage of the message to officers.
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