US Judge Strikes Down California Law Banning Masks for Federal Officers

Federal judge rules state law unconstitutionally targets federal agents

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A federal judge in Los Angeles has preliminarily struck down a California state law that banned federal officers from wearing masks while on duty, ruling that the U.S. government is likely to prove the law is unconstitutional. The judge upheld another state law requiring federal officers to display identification when performing their duties.

Why it matters

The ruling is a victory for the federal government in its ongoing legal battle with California over laws that target federal law enforcement activities. The mask ban was seen as an attempt by the state to obstruct and harass federal agents, particularly those involved in immigration enforcement operations.

The details

U.S. District Judge Christina Snyder granted the U.S. government's request for an order against enforcing the mask ban, agreeing that the law violated the Constitution's Supremacy Clause by treating federal officers differently than state law enforcement. However, the judge upheld a separate California law requiring federal officers to display identification.

  • On February 9, 2026, the federal judge issued the preliminary ruling.
  • In September 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the provisions banning masks and requiring identification for federal officers.

The players

U.S. District Judge Christina Snyder

The federal judge who issued the preliminary ruling striking down California's mask ban for federal officers.

California Governor Gavin Newsom

The California governor who signed the provisions banning masks and requiring identification for federal officers in the state.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi

The U.S. Attorney General who called the court decision on the mask law 'another key court victory' for the federal government.

Donald Trump

The former Republican U.S. President who deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles during protests over immigration enforcement operations, prompting the California laws that were challenged.

Bill Clinton

The former Democratic U.S. President who appointed Judge Christina Snyder to the federal bench.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“These federal agents are harassed, doxxed, obstructed, and attacked on a regular basis just for doing their jobs. We have no tolerance for it.”

— Pam Bondi, U.S. Attorney General (X)

“No badge and no name mean no accountability.”

— Gavin Newsom, California Governor (Statement)

What’s next

The judge's preliminary ruling will likely be appealed by the state of California, setting up a continued legal battle over the federal officer identification and mask requirements.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the federal government and state governments, particularly California, over the enforcement of immigration laws and the ability of federal agents to carry out their duties without interference from state authorities.