Los Angeles’ Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli has instructed federal law enforcement agencies to disregard California’s new law banning most law enforcement officers, including federal agents, from wearing face coverings during operations.
The back story: California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 627 last Saturday, making his state the first in the nation to prohibit law enforcement officers from wearing masks during official duties. The law was a response to recent immigration raids in Los Angeles, where masked federal agents conducted enforcement operations.
- Newsom said at the time, “I’ll be signing a bill, first in the nation, saying, enough. ICE, unmask. What are you afraid of?”
Driving the news: In a social media post Friday, Essayli criticized the state law as unconstitutional and asserted that California lacks authority over federal law enforcement.
- “Governor Newsom is confused about his role under the U.S. Constitution. He oversees California, not federal agencies. He should review the Supremacy Clause,” the post stated.
- Essayli said he has directed federal agencies to follow federal laws and their own policies rather than comply with the California legislation.
