RICHMOND, Va. — A newly introduced bill for Virginia’s 2026 legislative session would prohibit most law-enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings while performing official duties: a measure aimed at increasing transparency and accountability at a time when public attention on law-enforcement practices and identities has grown.

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The bill, filed November 20 by Del. Michael J. Jones, applies to state and federal law enforcement officers operating in the Commonwealth. It defines “facial covering” broadly, including opaque masks, balaclavas, tactical masks, gaiters, ski masks, or any item concealing a substantial portion of a face.

Under the bill, officers would generally be barred from wearing such coverings while on duty,

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