Senate2025-26 sessionFiscal note

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, 2026
    56 yea · 37 nay · 5 not voting
  • Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · January 28, 2026
    30 yea · 19 nay
  • Senate — Final Passage as Amended by the House · March 9, 2026
    30 yea · 19 nay

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Other bills sponsored by Valdez

All 2025-26 Washington State bills →

Source: the Washington State Legislature. OlympiaTrack is an independent bill-tracking service and is not affiliated with the Legislature. View on leg.wa.gov ↗