California has become the first state to ban most law enforcement officers from covering their faces while conducting official business. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the measure into law Saturday. The measure prohibits neck gaiters, ski masks and other facial coverings for local and federal officers, including immigration enforcement agents, There are some exceptions, however. It’s a direct response to recent immigration raids in Los Angeles where federal agents covered their faces while making arrests. Critics say California does not have authority over federal agents and the ban would put agents at risk. A top Homeland Security official calls it “despicable and a flagrant attempt to endanger our officers.”
