California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sept. 20 signed a invoice that may prohibit most regulation enforcement officers—together with federal brokers—from carrying masks throughout official operations within the state.
The primary-of-its-kind regulation, which might go into impact in January 2026, was instantly criticized by Trump administration officers, who’ve instructed federal brokers to disregard it. That units the stage for a showdown in court docket.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) brokers—who’re most concerned in finishing up President Donald Trump’s deportation operations—have taken to carrying masks whereas finishing up their jobs.
Throughout the Sept. 20 bill-signing event, Newsom stated that the state was “pushing again in opposition to the authoritarian tendencies in motion this administration.”
“The impression of those insurance policies all throughout this metropolis, our state, and nation are terrifying,” Newsom stated. “It’s like a dystopian sci-fi film. Unmarked automobiles, individuals in masks, individuals fairly actually disappearing. No due course of, no rights in a democracy the place we’ve got rights.”
The administration has defended the usage of masking by federal brokers, who officers say are dealing with elevated threats and violence associated to their work.
Should you discovered this text fascinating, please take into account supporting conventional journalism
Our first version was printed 25 years in the past from a basement in Atlanta. At this time, The Epoch Occasions brings fact-based, award-winning journalism to thousands and thousands of Individuals.
Our journalists have been threatened, arrested, and assaulted, however our dedication to impartial journalism has by no means wavered. This 12 months marks our twenty fifth 12 months of impartial reporting, free from company and political affect.
That’s why you’re invited to a limited-time introductory provide — simply $1 per week — so you possibly can be part of thousands and thousands already celebrating impartial information.
