SSB 5855 — Concerning the use of face coverings by law enforcement officers.
Signed into law — Chapter 115, Laws of 2026
- Sponsor
- Valdez
- Introduced
- January 15, 2026
- Status
- C 115 L 26
- Last action
- Effective date 3/19/2026. (March 19, 2026)
What this bill does
Prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings while interacting with the public in the performance of their duties. Establishes a civil cause of action for persons who are detained by law enforcement officers violating the prohibition on facial coverings, while exempting from liability officers who, at the time of detention, were reasonably identifiable as required.
From the Washington State Legislature's nonpartisan staff bill analysis. Read the full analysis ↗
Floor votes
- House — Final Passage as Amended by the House · March 3, 202656 yea · 37 nay · 5 not voting
- Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · January 28, 202630 yea · 19 nay
- Senate — Final Passage as Amended by the House · March 9, 202630 yea · 19 nay
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Create a free accountOther bills sponsored by Valdez
- SB 5077 — Concerning expansion of voter registration services by government agencies.
- E2SSB 5098 — Restricting the possession of weapons on the premises of state or local public buildings, parks or playground facilities where children are likely to be present, and county fairs and county fair facilities.
- SSB 5101 — Expanding access to leave and safety accommodations to include workers who are victims of hate crimes or bias incidents.
- SSB 5118 — Updating the requirements for the clinical experience license for international medical graduates.
- SB 5158 — Concerning student athlete insurance.
All 2025-26 Washington State bills →
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