New York Residents Support Legislation Against Masked Harassment

A new survey from Siena College shows that a clear majority of New York residents support legislation aimed at addressing the growing concern over masked individuals engaging in threatening or unlawful conduct, particularly during politically charged demonstrations. The poll found that 64% of respondents are in favor of a proposed law that would make it a crime to wear a mask or otherwise hide one’s identity while participating in harassing or threatening behavior. Only 24% of those surveyed said they oppose the measure.

This legislative proposal has come to the forefront largely in response to recent demonstrations where participants—often wearing masks—have engaged in aggressive tactics, including vandalism and intimidation. Many such incidents have been tied to pro-Hamas protests with many demonstrations in New York involving antisemitic actions perceived as hostile to the Jewish community.

Lawmakers backing the bill have emphasized the importance of accountability and public safety. They argue that concealing one’s face while engaging in such conduct not only hampers law enforcement efforts but also emboldens individuals to act with impunity. The ability to identify those who commit unlawful acts is essential for upholding justice and maintaining civil order, they contend.

Governor Kathy Hochul has made this legislation a priority and attempted to include it in the state’s budget package. While the budget deadline has already passed, negotiations are still ongoing. The anti-masking provision remains part of the discussions, though it faces resistance from some progressive lawmakers and advocacy groups who argue that the measure could infringe upon the right to protest and be used to unfairly target specific groups.

Nonetheless, supporters of the legislation note that the bill is narrowly focused and does not ban mask-wearing in general. Instead, it is designed to prevent anonymity in the context of threatening or harassing actions. They highlight that the intent is not to interfere with peaceful protest but to curb behavior that poses a real danger to individuals and communities, particularly when such actions are shielded from accountability by the use of masks.