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Panel rejects mask‑enhancement bill after debate over scope and law‑enforcement exemption
Summary
H 685, which would penalize concealing one's face during certain offenses with an added sentence and fine, failed in committee after questions about broad wording and an exemption for law enforcement and a split roll‑call vote.
Senator Foreman presented H 685, which would add Section 18‑915D to the Idaho Code to prohibit concealing the face while committing specified offenses and provide a sentencing enhancement of up to one additional year and a $2,500 fine.
Senators Wintrow and Vice Chairman Shippy questioned Section 3's exemption for law enforcement and whether the language—prohibiting any device that "covers, hides, or conceals any portion of the face"—could unintentionally include items such as sunglasses. Chief Tracy Basterrechea testified in support, saying masks used during crimes "served to intimidate and conceal identity, making prosecution harder," and cited prior incidents. After debate, a roll call was requested; Senators Foreman, Lent and Chairman Lakey voted aye. Senators Lenney, Keyser, Wintrow, Ruchti and Vice Chairman Shippy voted nay. The motion to send H 685 to the floor failed.
