On Thursday, March 5, Oregon Democratic lawmakers approved a measure preventing federal agents from wearing masks or face coverings.
House Bill 4138 will also require officers to display their name or identifying number, agency and badge. The only exception to wearing face masks made in the bill is regarding stealth operations or health reasons.
If the bill is signed by Gov. Tina Kotek, it would apply to all law enforcement agencies operating in Oregon, federal or not.
The bill comes in response to months of tension due to President Donald Trump’s recent crackdown on immigration. Sen. WLnsvey Campos, D-Aloha, shared she believes this is a balanced approach, protecting officers in necessary cases and allowing the public to feel safer.
“When someone has the power to stop you, question you, detain you, or arrest you, you deserve to know who they are and who they work for,” Campos said on the Senate floor.
coyote connelly • Mar 6, 2026 at 9:28 am
Originally I was in favor of this bill. However, once I got a look at the faces of many law enforcement agents, I’m not convinced this is a good idea.