Bill > H0419

This bill establishes new regulations for immigration and law enforcement officers regarding identification and face coverings, primarily through the "VISIBLE Act" which requires covered immigration officers to wear clearly visible identification during public immigration enforcement functions. Specifically, officers must display their agency name and their own last name or badge number in a legible format from at least 25 feet away, positioned on their outermost garment and not obscured by equipment. The bill prohibits these officers from wearing face coverings that impair identification or obscure their face, with exceptions for covert operations or hazardous environmental conditions. The legislation also creates oversight mechanisms, including a State Board of Immigration Enforcement to investigate complaints and recommend disciplinary actions, and mandates an annual report to the Legislature detailing the number of enforcement functions and instances of non-compliance. Additionally, the bill extends similar identification and face covering restrictions to law enforcement officers, making it an infraction (and potentially a misdemeanor for repeat violations) to wear face coverings during official duties, with limited exceptions for undercover operations, SWAT team protective gear, and emergency situations. The new regulations will take effect on July 1, 2026, with the Department of Law Enforcement required to adopt implementing rules by October 1, 2026.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/419