BREAKING NEWS: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has just announced it will NOT enforce California’s controversial mask ban for federal agents operating under ICE. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell stated that the law, which took effect on January 1, is unworkable and poses safety risks, as reported by ABC7 Los Angeles.
This urgent decision comes amid rising tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, where ICE agents are facing a staggering 1,000% increase in assaults. McDonnell emphasized the need for de-escalation rather than conflict, saying, “The reality of one armed agency approaching another armed agency over something that would be a misdemeanor at best…doesn’t make any sense.”
The legislation, known as Senate Bill 627, was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2025 and prohibits most law enforcement from wearing face coverings during official duties. Newsom questioned, “What are you afraid of?” when introducing the bill, but the LAPD has firmly disagreed with its implementation.
Compounding this issue, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also stated it will not comply with the mask ban, arguing that it could increase risks for federal agents already facing threats and doxxing incidents. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin warned that the legislation could make it easier for extremists to target federal officers, further complicating the situation.
The LAPD’s refusal to comply is echoed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which cited federal supremacy over immigration matters as a key reason for their stance. This developing situation continues to unfold as the Trump administration challenges the law in court, raising questions about the balance of state and federal authority.
As tensions rise, the implications of these decisions resonate deeply within communities and law enforcement agencies alike. Authorities report growing frustrations around the handling of immigration enforcement, which could lead to more conflict on the streets.
NEXT STEPS: As the legal battle continues, all eyes will be on how this policy impacts ICE operations and community safety in California. Stakeholders from both sides of the immigration debate are closely monitoring the situation, with updates expected in the coming days.
Stay tuned for more developments as this story evolves.
