Nassau County Enacts Controversial Mask Ban
Legislators in Nassau County, New York, have approved a contentious new law that prohibits individuals from using masks to hide their identity in public spaces. The bill, seen by many as controversial, was signed into law by County Executive Bruce Blakeman during a public event held on Wednesday.
Legislative Approval and Statement from County Executive
The bill gained support solely from the Republican members of the County Legislature, who unanimously voted in favor, while the seven Democrats opted to abstain from the vote. In a statement delivered at a press conference, Blakeman urged the public to “take your mask off. Don’t be a coward,” emphasizing that the legislation aims to enhance community safety.
Details of the New Law
The recently enacted law categorizes the act of masking to conceal identity as a misdemeanor offense. Offenders could face fines reaching $1,000 and a potential jail term of up to one year. The ban applies within public rights-of-way, including sidewalks, roadways, and alleys, and extends to private property without consent from the property owner or tenant.
Police Authority and Exemptions
Under this law, law enforcement officers are empowered to demand individuals to remove masks during traffic stops if they have reasonable suspicion that the mask-wearer may be engaging, or intends to engage, in criminal activity. However, the legislation outlines specific exceptions for those wearing masks for reasons related to health, safety, religious beliefs, or cultural practices. It also permits mask-wearing in celebration of holidays where such customs are traditional.
Broader Context of Mask Bans
This ban on concealing one’s identity comes amid increasing concerns related to public safety. New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams have both previously discussed the implementation of mask bans, specifically regarding masked protestors in subway systems, citing safety and social protection as key reasons behind such proposals. Hochul made headlines in June after a troubling pro-Palestinian protest incident was linked to masked demonstrations.
Civil Liberties Concerns
The measure has drawn criticism from civil rights advocates, such as the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU), which argues that Blakeman’s law represents an overreach and unnecessarily affect residents’ freedoms. NYCLU Director Susan Gottehrer criticized the potential racial biases in enforcement that could arise from the law’s exemptions, warning that police officers may not be qualified to make judgments about individuals’ mask use.
A Historical Perspective
Interestingly, a historical perspective highlights that New York state had an existing mask ban until it was recently repealed. Initially enacted in 1845 in the wake of the Anti-Rent Wars, it was occasionally utilized against protestors, including during significant movements in the 1960s and 2011. The law was repealed for the modern age during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
