Michigan Democrats Propose Bill to Criminalize Masked Law Enforcement

On Thursday, Democratic lawmakers in Michigan unveiled a bill aimed at making it illegal for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and other law enforcement officers to conceal their identities while on duty.

The proposed legislation would apply across federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies within Michigan. However, there are certain exceptions—such as for undercover operations, health protections, and specific dangerous scenarios. Violating this law could result in fines reaching up to $1,000 or imprisonment for as long as 90 days.

Senator Betsy Coffia shared details about the bill during a press conference held on July 25, alongside fellow Democrats Noah Arbitration, Carrie Raingan, Donnavan McKinney, and Erin Burns.

“Those who protect and serve our communities shouldn’t have to do so behind masks,” Coffia stated. She expressed concerns about recent incidents where individuals have emerged from unmarked vehicles wielding weapons, which she said could appear threatening to everyday citizens.

Arbitt noted that masked officers might embolden crime since they could act with less accountability. He remarked, “This undermines the rule of law,” attributing some of these issues to the previous administration’s policies.

Rheingans emphasized that the law aims to rebuild trust within communities, asserting that public servants should be visible to the public. “People who serve the public shouldn’t hide their faces,” she said.

McKinney added a perspective on accountability, suggesting that police must remain identifiable when exercising their authority over civilians.

Meanwhile, Republican Senator Matt Hall indicated that the bill is unlikely to pass, suggesting that Democrats are obstructing local law enforcement efforts. He argued, “This absurd bill won’t go anywhere.”

According to the Department of Homeland Security, many ICE agents and their families have been subjected to “doxing,” meaning their personal information has been leaked online, making them targets for violent groups. The agency reported a significant rise in attacks against agents, with an increase of nearly 700%.

With the current Republican majority in the Michigan Capitol, the future of this bill remains uncertain. Similar measures are being considered in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts.