While ICE agents are supposed to identify themselves during arrests, there are cases where they do not, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

In Massachusetts, existing laws require police to identify themselves, but recent ICE operations have lacked consistent identification, fueling public outrage.

Similar federal legislation, such as the 'No Masks for ICE Act' introduced by Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, has faced opposition from the Department of Homeland Security, which argues masks are necessary for safety.

National efforts, including the proposed Visible Act by Senators Alex Padilla and Cory Booker, aim to require ICE agents to wear body cameras and display identification, supported by groups like the ACLU.

The Department of Homeland Security opposes mask bans, citing safety concerns and the need to protect agents from threats and doxxing.

Boston officials, including Mayor Michelle Wu and U.S. Attorney Leah Foley, have publicly criticized masked ICE agents, emphasizing the importance of transparency and clear identification during arrests.

ICE officials report a significant increase in assaults and threats against agents and their families, with some attributing this rise to negative portrayals and hostility, leading to the use of masks for safety.

The debate over masks reflects broader tensions over immigration enforcement tactics and the visibility of federal agents during operations.

Massachusetts State Representative Jim Hawkins has introduced a bill aiming to ban law enforcement, including ICE agents, from wearing masks during public interactions, with violations classified as misdemeanors.

The bill responds to concerns over ICE agents covering their faces during arrests, which has raised issues about transparency and accountability, especially since ICE agents are not always required to identify themselves clearly.

ICE claims that masks help protect agents from threats, doxxing, and online harassment, citing a reported 500% increase in assaults and threats in recent months.

Boston city officials, including Mayor Michelle Wu, have criticized masked federal immigration agents, arguing that masks create fear and hinder transparency, and have called for clear identification standards.