▲ U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit to block a New York state policy that prohibits federal law enforcement agents from wearing masks.
The Department of Justice announced on June 23 (local time) that it has filed the lawsuit against the State of New York, Governor Kathy Hochul, and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Previously, New York included measures in its fiscal year 2027 state budget related to immigration policy, such as banning masks for agents of law enforcement agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), mandating the disclosure of personal identification information, prohibiting entry into schools, medical facilities, and private residences without a warrant, and banning cooperation between local police and federal immigration authorities.
The budget bill was passed by the New York State Legislature last month and has already been signed into law by Governor Hochul.
The Department of Justice labeled the measures an "unconstitutional attempt," expressing concern that the policy would hinder federal law enforcement and jeopardize sensitive law enforcement operations.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, "Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep the American people safe, and they should not be subject to public exposure or harassment simply for performing their duties."
The Democratic Party has long argued that ICE agents and others conducting enforcement operations while covering their faces undermine transparency and accountability, and can intimidate citizens.
Conversely, the Trump administration and the Republican Party oppose these measures, arguing that law enforcement officers must be protected from public exposure, harassment, and threats of retaliation.
Similar legislative attempts have been made in states led by Democratic governors, such as Virginia, New Jersey, and California, and the Department of Justice is responding to these states through lawsuits and other legal actions.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
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