“Justice Needs No Mask” Bill
House Bill 4760 sought to enhance public accountability by prohibiting masked policing and requiring visible officer identification. GOP leadership blocked the measure, calling it harmful to law enforcement. POAM opposes the “Justice Needs No Mask” bill because it ignores critical safety concerns and practical realities faced by officers in the field.
The information below is sourced from an article by Michigan Advance.
Background on House Bill 4760
Michigan House Democrats, led by Representative Betsy Coffia, introduced House Bill 4760, the “Justice Needs No Mask” bill. The proposal aimed to improve transparency by requiring law enforcement officers to display visible identification and banning face masks during public interactions.
The bill was inspired by growing unease over masked, unidentified federal agents conducting immigration-related operations. Critics argue that these tactics resemble those used by secret police and undermine public trust.
Key Provisions of the “Justice Needs No Mask” Bill
Under the proposed legislation, officers must show their name, badge number, and agency. Masks would be prohibited except in narrowly defined situations involving:
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Health risks
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High-threat tactical environments
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Covert operations
Violations could result in misdemeanor charges, which carry penalties of up to 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.
Republican Leadership Response
Despite its intent to foster transparency, Republican leadership in the Michigan House quickly halted the bill. Speaker Matt Hall called the proposal “an attack on law enforcement” and confirmed it would not proceed. Instead, it was sent to the House Government Operations Committee, where controversial bills are often shelved.
Representative Coffia criticized the decision, accusing Republicans of hypocrisy. She claimed they prioritized political theater over meaningful governance, pointing out their failure to pass a full state budget and their proposals for significant cuts to the Michigan State Police budget.
POAM’s Stance on HB 4760
The Police Officers Association of Michigan has formally opposed House Bill 4760. The organization argues that there are legitimate reasons for law enforcement officers to wear facial masks. These include protecting officer safety, responding to hazardous conditions, and preventing misuse of surveillance technologies such as artificial intelligence.
POAM maintains that a blanket ban on masks would be irresponsible, could endanger officers, and might hinder their ability to perform their duties effectively.
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