New Law to Ban Masked Police Officers in Ulster County

Law enforcement officers may soon have to show their faces while on the job in Ulster County, NY.

A new proposed law is moving forward that would prevent officers from wearing face coverings during most public interactions and require them to clearly identify themselves. Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger introduced the legislation back in March, and now lawmakers are one step closer to making it official after approving it this week.

New Law Targets Transparency in Ulster County, NY

According to Ulster County, the “Baseline Standards for Law Enforcement Identifiability Law” would set clear rules across the county requiring officers to be easily identifiable during any public-facing situation. All officers, local, state, federal, or part of a multi-agency task force, would need to display visible identification like their last name, badge number, or another unique ID. They’d also have to provide that information verbally if someone asks for it.

The proposal also pushes back on the use of face coverings, creating a general rule against them unless there’s a legitimate reason like undercover work, safety equipment, or other specific situations.

Why Officials Say This Matters

County officials say the goal of the new law is to build trust and eliminate confusion. “Public trust is the foundation of public safety,” Metzger said, explaining that people should always know who is exercising authority over them during any interaction.

Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa echoed that message, saying anonymity can hurt transparency and public confidence. While he acknowledged that masks may be necessary in certain cases, he said they aren’t needed during routine police work.

What Happens If Officers Don’t Comply?

The law wouldn’t dictate how police agencies operate, but it would create a baseline standard aimed at improving accountability and preventing impersonation.

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If an officer or agency fails to follow the rules, complaints would be handled through the Ulster County Human Rights Department. The county would also bring in independent attorneys to review cases and determine if any violations occurred, and what penalties, if any, should follow.

What’s Next?

The proposal does include several exceptions, including undercover operations, emergency situations, and cases where masks are required for safety or legal reasons.

The law, which was approved at the County's Legislature’s session earlier this week, will now move on to a public hearing in May.