OLYMPIA — The Washington State Senate today passed landmark legislation prohibiting local, state and federal law enforcement officers — including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents — from wearing face-concealing masks while interacting with the public.
Senate Bill 5855, sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez (D-Seattle), strengthens existing state law that requires state and local officers to be reasonably identifiable through a clearly displayed name or other identifying information. The bill prohibits opaque face coverings, including balaclavas, tactical masks, gaiters, ski masks and similar items. It does not restrict clear or translucent face shields, medical masks, respirators used in hazardous conditions, or helmets worn for transportation.
“We are seeing a disturbing trend across the country and here in Washington: masked federal agents carrying out enforcement actions without accountability, detaining families, and terrorizing communities,” Valdez said. “This legislation is necessary now more than ever to protect our communities, uphold transparency, and ensure public safety never comes at the cost of fear and intimidation. Washington must lead by example. We cannot allow anonymity and unchecked power to replace trust and accountability.”
The bill gives anyone detained by an unlawfully masked officer the right to take legal action, allowing them to seek compensation, attorney fees, and other remedies deemed appropriate by the court. State and local law enforcement officers who are already in compliance with identification requirements and not covering their faces are explicitly protected from liability.
“This bill protects both responsible officers and the public,” Valdez added. “Our communities deserve to know who is exercising government authority in their neighborhoods. I look forward to working with the House to get this bill to the governor’s desk as soon as possible.”
The bill now heads to the House for consideration.
