Urgent Call for Transparency: End the Use of Masks by Law Enforcement Agents

I am writing as a Washington State resident deeply concerned about the growing practice of law enforcement agents—particularly federal agents—wearing masks or face coverings while carrying out arrests. This practice erodes public trust and instills fear among citizens. Washington law (RCW 10.116.050) requires uniformed peace officers to be “reasonably identifiable,” but it does not prohibit masks or other coverings that obscure an officer’s identity. As California advances legislation to ban this practice, I urge you to consider similar protections here in Washington. In 2017, Senate Bill 5941 sought to limit the wearing of masks and hoods in public places. Whether by revisiting that bill or crafting new legislation, I ask that you help ensure law enforcement officers in our state cannot conceal their identities except in narrowly defined situations where safety gear is essential. Anonymity fosters abuse. Online, trolls hide behind fake profiles to say or do things they’d never do openly. The same dynamic applies when officers conceal their faces—it strips away humanity, erodes accountability, and invites impersonation by bad actors who mimic law enforcement attire to intimidate or harm others. Every Washingtonian deserves to live without fear of their own government. When officers show their faces and names, they remind us that they are public servants, not anonymous enforcers. Transparency builds safety—for officers and civilians alike. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to protecting our communities. I respectfully urge you to lead on this issue and ensure Washington sets the standard for transparent, accountable policing.