A Queens Councilwoman is introducing a invoice that might ban the sort of ski masks incessantly worn protestors to hide their identification.
Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R) mentioned the anonymity granted by such masks “emboldens individuals to behave out and trigger chaos in our streets.”
The identity-obscuring masks have turn out to be synonymous with protests all through town, with many protestors caught on video masking their faces once they allegedly commit crimes.
“When their faces are seen and simply identifiable, would-be criminals might imagine twice earlier than breaking the regulation. This can be a large step in the correct path on the subject of public security on this metropolis,” the conservative councilwoman mentioned in a press release when she launched the invoice Thursday.
The invoice has some bipartisan assist. A spokesperson for Ariola’s employees mentioned Democrats Bob Holden and Kalman Yeager assist the ban of the notorious face coverings.
“We’re hoping others come on as effectively. We imagine it certainly will cross,” a spokesperson for Ariola advised The Submit.
Related laws handed in Philadelphia final yr, the place it was launched by Democratic lawmaker Anthony Phillips.
New York State Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz launched a invoice to the New York state legislature that might convey again a masks ban revoked throughout Covid. That invoice has assist from Dinowitz’ fellow democratic lawmakers and civil rights teams.
The New York Metropolis proposal particularly bans “ski masks” and defines the time period “ski masks” as “a close-fitting garment masking the entire head and face, with holes for the eyes, mouth, or nostril, or any mixture of the three.”
Underneath the invoice, ski masks wouldn’t be allowed to be worn in public locations, at faculties or different childcare services. However the proposal does grant exceptions for non secular functions, costumes and work, amongst different causes.
Individuals who violate the ban could possibly be fined $250, which they might get again in the event that they attend a courtroom continuing.
Supply hyperlink
