Ferguson signs bill banning face coverings for law enforcement
By Griffin Beach on Friday, March 20th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Featured Stories More Top Stories
SEATTLE – Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 5855 into law, banning law enforcement from wearing masks during public interactions.
“A law enforcement officer shall not wear a facial covering while interacting with the public in the performance of the officer’s duties,” reads the text of the bill.
It does exclude N95 medical or surgical masks as well as masks and respirators designed to protect against gases or smoke. It also excludes head or face coverings worn for religious purposes.
Even though the bill applies to all law enforcement in the state, Ferguson spent much of the signing referencing immigration customs enforcement and federal agents.
“Law enforcements job of course is to protect us, yet ICE is hiding from public accountability,” said Ferguson.
While the bill had Democratic support it was completely opposed by Republicans, creating a partly line split in both the House and the Senate.
“It is irresponsible of the Legislature to pass and the governor to sign this, it takes away an important safety option for local and state law enforcement officers who do a dangerous job each day to protect the public,” said Rep. Mark Klicker (R-Walla Walla). “If our law enforcement officers are prohibited from wearing masks in most circumstances, the Legislature should also pass this same restriction on protestors.”
Screenshot from video at Thursday’s signing ceremony.
