Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB4760

Introduced
7/29/25  

Caption

Law enforcement: other; law enforcement officer use of facial coverings or disguises in certain circumstances; prohibit, and require appropriate identification. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 396a.

Impact

The enactment of HB4760 will necessitate a shift in law enforcement protocols concerning identification standards. Officers will be required to visibly display their name or badge number as well as the identification of their employing agency. This initiative is intended to enhance public trust and aid community members in identifying lawful authority during encounters. However, the bill allows for exceptions during covert operations where disguises may be necessary to gather evidence of criminal activity, highlighting a potential tension between operational efficacy and public accountability.

Summary

House Bill 4760 aims to amend the Michigan Penal Code by introducing Section 396a, which establishes requirements for law enforcement officers while performing their duties. The core provision mandates that officers must wear appropriate identification when interacting with the public and prohibits them from using masks or personal disguises, with certain exceptions. This legislation is framed within the ongoing discourse about transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices, particularly during direct public interactions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB4760 include concerns from civil rights advocates that, while public identification is crucial, the restrictions on masks and disguises could complicate undercover operations essential for certain investigations. Critics argue this could lead to operational difficulties in regulating criminal behavior effectively. Moreover, the bill raises questions about its potential implications for law enforcement safety and the ability to protect officers from threats in high-risk situations, where disguises might be warranted for their protection.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB6113

Crimes: other; tampering with evidence by law enforcement officer with specific intent; prohibit, and provide penalties. Amends sec. 483a of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.483a).

MI SB1095

Crimes: other; tampering with evidence by law enforcement officer with specific intent; prohibit, and provide penalties. Amends sec. 483a of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.483a).

MI SB1092

Law enforcement: training; mental health and law enforcement response training; require for law enforcement officers. Amends title & secs. 9, 9b, 9c & 9d of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.609 et seq.) & adds secs. 9f & 9g.

MI HB4021

Law enforcement: training; definition of peace officer in ORV laws; include. Amends secs. 81101, 81132, 81145, 81146 & 81150 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.81101 et seq.).

MI HB4323

Law enforcement: other; 21-foot protection zone around a patrol vehicle; create. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 479d.

MI HB5036

Law enforcement: other; employment standards for law enforcement officers; modify color vision standard. Amends secs. 9, 9b, 9c & 9d of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.609 et seq.).

MI SB1134

Weapons: firearms; sale, manufacture, or possession of a firearm disguised to resemble a toy; prohibit. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 224g.

MI SB0783

Animals: care and treatment; child protective service employees to report suspected animal abuse or neglect to certain law enforcement officers; require. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 50d. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0782'24

MI SB1099

Law enforcement: employment; licensing requirements under the Michigan commission on law enforcement standards act; update. Amends secs. 9, 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d & 11 of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.609 et seq.).

MI HB6112

Law enforcement: employment; licensing requirements under the Michigan commission on law enforcement standards act; update. Amends secs. 9, 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d & 11 of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.609 et seq.).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.