On January 28, 2026, the Washington State Senate passed Senate Bill 5855, sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez (D‑Seattle). The measure would prohibit law enforcement officers—including local, state, and federal agents—from wearing opaque facial coverings such as balaclavas, tactical masks, ski masks, or gaiters while engaging with the public, with limited exceptions for undercover or SWAT operations and medical or protective equipment. The bill passed on a strictly party‑line vote of 30–19, with no Republican support. If it advances through the Legislature and is signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson, it would take effect immediately. (senatedemocrats.wa.gov)

The legislation explicitly allows translucent face shields, N95 or surgical masks used for medical or hazardous conditions, respirators, and helmets—as long as they do not obscure facial identity. It also reinforces existing state requirements under RCW 10.116.050 that officers be reasonably identifiable. Importantly, it empowers anyone detained by an unlawfully masked officer to sue that officer in their official capacity for damages, attorneys’ fees, injunctive relief, or other remedies deemed appropriate by a court. (senatedemocrats.wa.gov)

The bill progressed rapidly through the Senate’s Law & Justice Committee, holding hearings in mid‑January before the floor vote. The Association of Washington Cities testified against the bill’s enforcement mechanism, warning it could expose municipalities to open‑ended liability. The Office of the Attorney General, Sen. Valdez, and others argued the legislation is aimed at restoring trust and transparency in communities affected by aggressive federal immigration enforcement tactics. (wacities.org)

Sen. Valdez said the measure responds to growing concerns over masked ICE agents conducting raids without accountability, invoking fear among working families; he stated, “These masked federal agents are operating without accountability.” States officials—including Gov. Ferguson—have expressed consistent support, calling the bill a priority to protect immigrant communities from intimidation. (washingtonstatestandard.com)

Opponents—including those speaking during Senate debate—warned the bill may overstep state authority in regulating federal agents, raising constitutional questions around the Supremacy Clause. Republican legislators argued that oversight of federal law enforcement is beyond the state’s power, and that the legislation could send a negative message to law enforcement. (washingtonstatestandard.com)

Similar legislation has emerged in other states; California enacted a comparable ban on face‑concealing masks for federal agents in September 2025, which went into effect on January 1, 2026, and is currently under legal challenge. (washingtonpost.com)

Why This Matters in Cowlitz County

While the bill’s direct targets are broader statewide and federal actors, Cowlitz County communities—including Longview and Kelso—are concerned about the conduct of law enforcement during ICE operations. If SB 5855 becomes law, it could alter enforcement behavior locally and reduce fear of anonymous face‑masked confrontations. Local jurisdictions also face the potential for increased liability through civil suits brought by individuals detained under masked encounters.

Local law enforcement agencies should prepare for possible changes in uniform policy, training, and public interaction standards. Additionally, city councils and county officials in Longview and Kelso may need to weigh the financial risks raised by the Association of Washington Cities. (wacities.org)

The bill now heads to the Washington House of Representatives, where leaders anticipate a floor vote in mid‑ to late February. If passed, swift enactment would give Cowlitz County residents and officials little delay in seeing its effects—and weighing its impacts.

What Comes Next

Residents can track SB 5855’s progress via the Legislature’s website and testify or comment through established channels. Local civic groups, legal aid organizations, and councils may consider community forums to discuss rights and possible implications—for immigrants and public trust, and for municipal liability. As always, Columbia Countercurrent will follow the process and report developments that affect Longview, Kelso, and Cowlitz County.

Related Reading: For more on local concerns around ICE activity, see coverage of recent enforcement actions in Seattle and Bellingham raids. For residents interested in civic participation, the Legislature allows public comment and testimony, including remote options.

Sources

• Washington Senate Democrats blog: “Senate passes Valdez bill…” (publication dated January 28, 2026)
• Association of Washington Cities testimony on liability concerns (January 2026)
• Washington State Standard and OPB coverage of SB 5855’s passage (January 28–30, 2026)
• Washington Post reporting on California’s similar law and legal context (September 2025)
• Official bill text from Washington Legislature (SB 5855)