New York to Create New Charge for Masked Criminals, Says Governor Hochul

New York to Levy New Criminal Charge for Mask Usage in Crime

In the coming days, New York lawmakers will consider a proposal to create a new criminal charge for people who wear a mask while committing another crime, as stated by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Key Points about New York State’s Mask Legislation

• The proposal includes creating a new criminal charge for people who use a mask to commit another crime
• This measure will be part of a wide-reaching state budget bill
• Using a mask to hide identity when committing a Class A misdemeanor or higher, or fleeing a crime scene, would be considered a misdemeanor

Gov. Kathy Hochul initially suggested a mask ban in New York City’s subway system due to concerns about individuals using masks to commit antisemitic acts.

This idea faced significant criticism due to potential impacts on protests, public health, and cultural or religious mask usage. Consequently, no immediate legislation was introduced.

State Sen. James Skoufis proposed a bill targeting mask usage for harassment or threats, but critics said it could result in subjective enforcement. The idea has recently resurfaced during state budget negotiations amid increased scrutiny of international students and scholars by the Trump administration.

Hochul clarified that the term mask ban was an overstatement, but emphasized that the proposal aims to prevent those committing a crime from hiding their identity.

Skoufis noted that the proposal addresses mask usage concerns while mitigating law enforcement subjectivity. He also added that these negotiations were influenced by the Trump administration’s recent actions.

Senior policy counsel at the New York Civil Liberties Union, Allie Bohm, criticized Hochul’s initial mask ban proposal as it could end up endangering protestors who are now concerned with being identified by the federal government.