Missouri bill would require officers to show ID during official duties

The proposed section would require officers to show identification and generally bar face coverings that hide their identity during official duties. The rules would cover Missouri-licensed peace officers and federal law enforcement agents, including agents conducting ICE operations in the state. The face-covering rule would not apply to undercover work, active Special Response Team or SWAT duties, emergencies that prevent identification, or duties where public safety makes identification unreasonable. The rule also excludes clear shields, protective masks and gear, underwater equipment, required motorcycle helmets, and eyewear needed to guard against retinal weapons. The requirements would apply while an officer performs official duties in Missouri. The bill states no start date.

A willful and knowing violation would be punishable as a class A misdemeanor. The penalty would apply to a law enforcement officer covered by the proposed section. The violation must be both willful and knowing.