Controversial face covering ban signed into law in Nassau County, New York

Nassau County, New York, has officially enacted a controversial ban on face coverings in public, marking the first legislation of its kind in the United States. Signed into law on Wednesday, the ban includes exemptions for health and religious reasons and is framed as a public safety initiative aimed at addressing crimes committed by individuals wearing masks. County legislator Howard Kopel emphasized that the measure was introduced in response to a rise in antisemitic incidents linked to masked individuals since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7. County Executive Bruce Blakeman defended the legislation, asserting it serves to protect the public, particularly in light of accusations against masked protesters at Columbia University for engaging in antisemitic and violent behavior. However, the ban has faced significant backlash from local lawmakers and civil rights advocates, who argue it is politically motivated and a misuse of taxpayer resources. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, the Democratic minority leader of the County Legislature, criticized the law as “political theater” and predicted it would be challenged in court, potentially damaging Blakeman’s track record on legal matters. The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) also condemned the ban, claiming it infringes on free speech rights and undermines public health, especially during a period of rising COVID-19 cases. Susan Gottehrer, the NYCLU's regional director, urged county officials to prioritize the protection of individual rights rather than pursuing political agendas that could alienate vulnerable populations.