A New York county has implemented the nation’s first ban on wearing masks in public in an effort to crack down on costumed protesters.
Nassau County, Long Island, signed the law into law on Wednesday.
Anyone who violates the new law will now face a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
The controversial ban, which has exemptions for health and religious reasons, stems from “anti-Semitic incidents, often perpetrated by people wearing masks,” said Nassau County Legislator Howard Kopel.
The law is being advertised as a public safety measure aimed at those who commit crimes while wearing face coverings and was inspired by the rise of pro-Palestine protests over the past year. Pictured: Students at Columbia University in New York City in April
The law is being advertised as a public safety measure aimed at prosecuting those who commit crimes while wearing face coverings and was inspired by the rise of pro-Palestine protests over the past year.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman signed the bill into law Wednesday morning during a news conference.
During the conference, Blakeman highlighted protests at Columbia University earlier this year, where people wearing masks allegedly engaged in anti-Semitic and violent acts.
The protests were part of many that gathered at universities across the United States.
The bill, approved by the committee’s 12 Republicans, goes beyond protecting cultural groups. Blakeman said, “It will reduce crime and deal with criminals who cover their faces and commit robberies and carjackings.”
However, opponents of the legislation argued that it poses a risk to those who want to peacefully protest while hiding their identity.
Democratic Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said: “The bill is nothing more than political theater and a flagrant waste of taxpayer money.”
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman signed the bill into law on Wednesday.
‘This law is destined to be overturned in court.
“It is deeply disappointing that Blakeman and his Republican colleagues have chosen to ignore any opportunity for bipartisan compromise or even consider the Democratic bill, a bill that upholds the rule of law, offers a fairer approach for residents, and imposes stronger penalties on actual violators.”
Susan Gottehrer of the New York Civil Liberties Union joined the opposition: “Masks protect people who express controversial political views.”
However, Blakeman noted that the legislation is a bipartisan effort that includes New York City’s Democratic mayor in the conversation: “Mayor Eric Adams has been vocal that he would like to see the New York City Council pass similar legislation.
“This is not a restriction on anyone’s rights. No one has a constitutional right to conceal their identity in public.”
The ban will take effect immediately.
