Bill > H4684

This bill adds a new section to the Massachusetts Penal Code that prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing masks or personal disguises while interacting with the public, with specific exceptions for medical-grade surgical or N95 masks used to prevent disease transmission and masks designed to protect against smoke or toxins during emergencies. Any violation of this provision would be considered a misdemeanor. The bill clarifies that the Legislature intends to create future legislation allowing SWAT team officers to wear protective face gear and to require officers to display their name or badge number on their uniforms. The definition of "law enforcement officer" is broad, encompassing any officer or person acting on behalf of local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies. The bill includes a severability clause, which means that if any part of the legislation is found to be invalid, the rest of the law can still be enforced. Importantly, the bill does not require any additional funding or reimbursement for its implementation, and it aims to increase transparency and accountability in law enforcement interactions with the public by limiting the use of masks or disguises that could potentially conceal an officer's identity.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4684