CRIME & LAW

Judge Blocks California Mask Ban for ICE Agents

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Sources: 11

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Sources: 11

Los Angeles: A federal judge on Monday blocked California’s law banning federal immigration agents from wearing facial coverings, while upholding a requirement that agents display agency identification and badge numbers. Judge Christina Snyder said the 'No Secret Police Act' unlawfully discriminated against federal officers because it did not apply to state authorities and invoked the Constitution’s supremacy clause; she said the Justice Department had not shown the mask ban directly regulated the federal government. The Trump administration sued in November after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it in September following summer ICE raids. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Summer 2025: High-profile ICE raids in Los Angeles prompt public criticism.
September 2025: Gov. Gavin Newsom signs the 'No Secret Police Act' banning most face coverings and requiring visible ID.
November 2025: The Trump administration, via the Department of Justice, files suit challenging California’s law.
10th February 2026: U.S. District Judge Christina Snyder grants a preliminary injunction blocking the mask ban but upholds ID requirements.
Post-ruling: Officials, advocates, and agencies consider appeals, legislative adjustments, and broader state–federal implications.