Bill
A 6002
Requires officers to be clearly identified on uniforms and generally bans masks during public encounters, with eight specific exceptions.
Purpose and overview
- A 6002 aims to prohibit law enforcement officers from concealing their identity during certain public operations. It requires clear identification of the officer and the agency on the officer’s uniform and sets specific rules about when masks or disguises may be worn.
Key provisions
- Definitions
- “Law enforcement officer” includes members of federal, state, county, or municipal agencies empowered to enforce laws or carry out related duties, including individuals authorized to perform these functions on behalf of an agency.
- Identification requirements
- Officers must be clearly identified by:
- the employing agency name or widely known initials, and
- the officer’s name or a unique badge/identification number on the uniform.
- Masking and disguises
- Absent specified exceptions, officers may not wear a mask or disguise while interacting with the public in the performance of official duties.
- Exceptions (eight categories):
1) undercover assignments
2) special weapons and tactics (SWAT) operations requiring face protection
3) masks needed for water rescue operations
4) masks worn to protect against cold during declared weather emergencies
5) masks to protect against smoke exposure in fire-related incidents
6) masks to protect against biological or chemical agents where such agents may be present
7) wearing a medical-grade mask or N95 respirator, with a physician’s statement that it is necessary for health reasons
8) face shields that do not conceal the face
- Penalties
- Violations are a disorderly persons offense, punishable by:
- a fine of $500 to $1,000, and/or
- up to six months’ imprisonment, or both.
Effective date
- The act states it shall take effect immediately upon enactment.
Impact and scope
- Affects all federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement officers, plus anyone authorized or deputized to perform law enforcement functions on behalf of an agency.
- Seeks to enhance accountability and public transparency by ensuring officers are identifiable in most public-facing interactions.
Procedural status and sponsorship
- Status: Referred to Higher Education (per the bill data provided).
- Introduced: November 17, 2025.
- Primary sponsor: Michaelle C. Solages.
- Related/companion: S 4896 (companion bill).
Notes
- The introduced text provided in the version content centers on officer identity and masking rules, with explicit carve-outs for operational needs and safety considerations.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
Sign in to ask a question.
