California Bans Most Law Enforcement, Including Federal Agents, From Wearing Masks

The Trump administration quickly denounced the law, challenging California’s authority over federal agents.
California Bans Most Law Enforcement, Including Federal Agents, From Wearing Masks
Federal agents with Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) ride on an armored vehicle driving slowly down Wilshire Boulevard near MacArthur Park in Los Angeles, Calif., on July 7, 2025. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images
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California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Saturday signed a bill that would prohibit most law enforcement officers—including federal agents—from wearing masks during official operations in the state.

The first-of-its-kind law, which would go into effect in January 2026, was immediately criticized by Trump administration officials, who have instructed federal agents to ignore it. That sets the stage for a showdown in court.