Policy Text
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is committed to work in partnership with our community to enhance the safety, security, and quality of life for the
residents and visitors of Kern County through professional public safety services.
New Policy and Procedure
K-0304 Facial Coverings
Effective January 1, 2026, Senate Bill 627 amended Penal Code 185.5 and established
Government Code 7289, regarding facial coverings in law enforcement.
Government Code 7289 requires by July 1, 2026, law enforcement agencies operating in
California to maintain and publicly post a written policy limiting the use of facial coverings.
KCSOPPM K-0304 was created to define “Facial Coverings” and the exemptions related
to the masks and coverings.
Key Provision:
Pursuant to Penal Code 185.5(a), “a law enforcement officer shall not wear a facial
covering that conceals or obscures their facial identity in the performance of their duties,
except as expressly authorized in this section.”