Judge Strikes Down California's Ban on Masks for Federal Agents

California cannot prohibit federal law enforcement agents from wearing face masks, but can require them to display identification.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A federal judge ruled that California's law prohibiting federal law enforcement agents from wearing face masks is unconstitutional, as it does not apply the same requirements to state and local officers. However, the judge allowed the state to enforce a separate law that requires all law enforcement officers, including federal ones, to display visible identification.

Why it matters

This ruling highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities over law enforcement policies, particularly around issues of transparency and accountability. The case also touches on broader debates around the use of masks and identification by law enforcement officers.

The details

Judge Christina A. Snyder of the Federal District Court in Los Angeles issued a preliminary injunction against California's mask ban, ruling that the law was unconstitutional because it did not impose the same requirements on all federal, state and local law enforcement officers. However, the judge allowed the state to enforce a separate law that requires all law enforcement officers, including federal ones, to display visible identification.

  • On September 2025, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation making California the first state to prohibit law enforcement officers from covering their faces, starting on January 1, 2026.
  • On February 9, 2026, Judge Snyder issued the preliminary injunction against the mask ban.

The players

Judge Christina A. Snyder

A federal judge in the Federal District Court in Los Angeles who issued the preliminary injunction against California's mask ban for federal law enforcement agents.

Gov. Gavin Newsom

The governor of California who signed legislation in September 2025 prohibiting law enforcement officers from covering their faces.

U.S. Department of Justice

The federal agency that argued the California law was unconstitutional and that federal agents needed to be able to protect their identities from protesters.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge's ruling is a preliminary injunction, so the case may continue to be litigated in the courts.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities over law enforcement policies, particularly around issues of transparency and accountability. The ruling allows federal agents to continue wearing masks, but requires them to display identification, which could impact how law enforcement operates in California.