California Governor Gavin Newsom has made a historic move by signing Senate Bill 627, dubbed the “No Secret Police Act,” into law, positioning California as the first state to ban law enforcement officers from concealing their identities during operations, with specific exceptions. Authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D–San Francisco), the law emerges as a countermeasure against the clandestine police tactics observed during the Trump administration's federal immigration raids.

Starting January 1, 2026, the law will apply to all peace officers within California, including city, county, local agencies, federal agents, and out-of-state law enforcement officers operating within the state. While the law criminalizes the use of ski masks, balaclavas, and similar face coverings during operations, it outlines exceptions for SWAT missions, undercover assignments, and uses involving safety equipment like medical masks and motorcycle helmets.

By mid-2026, law enforcement agencies must publicly outline and adhere to strict guidelines on the use of facial coverings, ensuring transparency and accountability, and explicitly limiting the circumstances under which masks can be used. Violations of this statute could lead to infractions or misdemeanors, with severe civil penalties for rights violations committed under the guise of anonymity.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of this law in his letter to the Legislature, stating, “America should never be a country where masked ‘secret police’ grab people off the streets.” He stressed the need for additional legislation to refine exemptions and protect officers acting in good faith from undue liability.

Despite its support from various civil rights groups and community leaders, the law faces criticism from federal entities like the Department of Homeland Security, which argues that it could complicate federal operations. However, supporters, including co-sponsoring organizations like MALDEF and the Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice, applaud the law as a significant step towards demystifying law enforcement and reinforcing community trust.

At a press conference following the signing, Governor Newsom articulated the essence of the law: providing clear identification and accountability in law enforcement operations. This groundbreaking legislation marks a pivotal moment in California's approach to law enforcement transparency and public safety.