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A 5956

Prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing mask or disguise while interacting with public.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alixon Collazos-Gill and 3 co-sponsors

Bill A 5956 mandates law enforcement officers in New Jersey to remain identifiable by prohibiting masks during public interactions, boosting transparency and community trust.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5956

Summary of Bill A 5956

Bill Number: A 5956
Title: Prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing mask or disguise while interacting with public
Status: Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
Introduced Date: July 24, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Police

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5956 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement by prohibiting officers from wearing masks or disguises while interacting with the public during the performance of their official duties. The intent is to ensure that law enforcement officers are identifiable to the public, thereby fostering trust and open communication between the community and police.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Law Enforcement Officer: The bill defines a "law enforcement officer" as any member of federal, state, county, or municipal law enforcement agencies empowered to enforce laws.

  2. Prohibition on Masks and Disguises:

    • Law enforcement officers are prohibited from wearing masks or disguises while engaging with the public.
    • This prohibition does not apply in specific circumstances:
      • Undercover Assignments: Officers engaged in undercover work are exempt.
      • Protective Shields: Officers may wear shields that do not conceal their faces for protection.
      • Medical Masks: Officers can wear medical-grade masks or N95 respirators if they have a physician's statement confirming the necessity for health reasons.
      • Emergency Situations: Masks may be worn for protection against smoke during a declared State of Emergency.

  3. Penalties for Violation:

    • Officers who violate this provision will be guilty of a disorderly persons offense.
    • Penalties include a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

Impact

  • Law Enforcement: The bill directly affects law enforcement officers across all levels of government in New Jersey, mandating that they remain identifiable during public interactions.
  • Public Trust: By ensuring officers are not masked, the bill seeks to improve public trust in law enforcement, potentially leading to better community relations.
  • Legal Consequences: The introduction of penalties for non-compliance may deter officers from wearing masks inappropriately, reinforcing accountability.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on July 24, 2025, and has been referred to the Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee for further consideration.
  • There is a related companion bill, S 4868, which may address similar issues in the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill A 5956 represents a legislative effort to promote transparency in law enforcement practices by prohibiting the use of masks or disguises during public interactions. The bill outlines specific exemptions and establishes penalties for violations, aiming to enhance accountability and public trust in law enforcement agencies in New Jersey.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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