New York Sets Mask Rules for Police and ICE

The state of New York is moving to stop police officers from wearing masks while on duty, a decision announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. The rule also targets the federal agency U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), limiting its presence in places like schools and hospitals unless a judge gives permission.

The governor said the new rules are part of a larger budget plan for 2027 that includes major changes to how immigration is handled in the state. State officials expect the bills to be signed by the Democratic‑controlled legislature soon after they are passed in the next few weeks.

Hochul explained that the mask ban will apply to all state, local and federal officers unless a clear operational need exists—such as a gas mask in an emergency. She added that police should not wear masks during normal patrols or routine work.

Other states on the left, such as California and New Jersey, have adopted similar measures to restrict ICE’s mask use during its enforcement activities. Those states faced legal challenges from the Justice Department, and a federal judge in California found the ban to be unlawful discrimination against federal officers.

The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees immigration enforcement at the national level, has not yet commented on New York’s new policy. The changes could prompt a federal challenge from the Trump administration, which has previously opposed state‑level restrictions on ICE operations.