Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has implemented a significant exemption to the county’s contentious mask ban, enabling local law enforcement officers involved in operations such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids to wear face coverings. Previously, the mask ban allowed exemptions only for religious or health-related reasons. However, through this new executive order, officers at the federal, state, and local levels can now wear masks when conducting drug and gang-related raids, as well as immigration enforcement alongside ICE.
During the executive order signing in Mineola, Blakeman emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement officials, stating, “Here in Nassau County, we respect our law enforcement officers. And we have their back.” This move comes at a time when Nassau County is preparing to fully launch its partnership with ICE, with ten detectives already trained and ready to assist in their operations.
The primary intention behind the order, according to Blakeman, is to allow officers to conceal their identities during sensitive police operations to protect the integrity of their missions and safeguard them and their families from possible retaliation. This change stands in stark contrast to a recently proposed bill in New York City, which aims to prevent federal agents from wearing masks while on duty.
Blakeman’s decision follows the county’s mask ban initiated in August, which was a response to anti-Israel protests at local college campuses. This ban classifies mask-wearing as a misdemeanor unless it is for religious or health reasons, punishable by fines or imprisonment. The law has faced multiple lawsuits, though these efforts have yet to dismantle it.
In a response to criticisms from Nassau Democrats regarding the partnership with ICE and the new executive order, Blakeman defended his approach. Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton suggested the executive order demonstrates a recognition that the original mask law may not withstand legal scrutiny, asserting it was more politically motivated than for public safety.
Blakeman countered the critics by highlighting that those who oppose law enforcement’s ability to wear masks during duties are paradoxically the same individuals who criticized the mask ban. He reiterated that the intent of the ban was to deter certain individuals using masks to evade accountability during protests.
This situation underscores ongoing tensions between local government policies, law enforcement, and community responses, especially concerning immigration and public safety issues. As Nassau County continues to navigate these complexities, the dialogue surrounding law enforcement practices and community safety remains vital and current.