New York lawmakers are pushing for a bill to ban law enforcement officers, including ICE agents, from wearing masks. The rise in arrests by masked agents has caused fear in immigrant communities. Proponents argue that banning masks will ensure accountability as officers' actions can be photographed or filmed. Critics claim masks protect officers' safety amid increasing assaults. The bill, dubbed the MELT Act, comes after an executive order allowing police to wear masks when aiding federal authorities in detaining immigrants. Lawmakers believe the measure will pass the Legislature.
An increase in arrests by masked ICE agents has spurred fear among local immigrant communities, so lawmakers are considering a ban on masks for accountability.
State Assemblymember Tony Simone stated, "It's a stock measure on a rise of autocracy. You should be accountable as a law enforcement officer."
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