A federal judge has dealt a significant blow to the New York Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, blocking a new mask ban that would have restricted the use of face coverings in detention centers. The ban, which was set to take effect on August 1, aimed to limit the use of masks as a means of preventing smugglers from concealing contraband or identities. However, advocates for immigrant rights argue that the ban would have put detainees, many of whom are vulnerable to COVID-19, at greater risk of infection. The ruling is a major victory for those fighting to protect the health and well-being of individuals in ICE custody.
