State Sen. Gary Byrne (R-Byrneville) recently introduced Senate Bill 286 to promote public safety. The bill, authored by Byrne, would ban the use of face masks at a public assembly without a valid reason. It also increases the penalty for crimes committed while wearing a mask in a public assembly.
The use of face masks or other clothing that ensures individuals remain anonymous during large scale protests where social contagion is a major factor and other events, makes it much more likely that criminal activity and violence will occur. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of face masks in public spaces became much more common due to the public health concerns of individuals and of governments who mandated their use. Many individuals have taken advantage of this trend and used face masks to hide their identity while committing crimes.
"If you can hide your identity in a large group, you are much more susceptible to social contagion, or mob psychology, because there's a lower likelihood of facing accountability for your actions," Byrne said. "We have seen crowds turn into mobs, and protestors turn into rioters due to this simple fact. My bill aims to protect freedom of expression while preventing bad situations like this from occurring in the first place and makes sure those that continue to abuse masks to commit crimes are held accountable."
There are many exceptions granted to allow the use of masks, including if it is worn:
· By emergency medical personnel while engaging in their professional responsibilities.
· For medical purposes if prescribed by a physician.
· As part of a holiday costume to celebrate the holiday.
· As part of a theater costume to participate in a theater production.
· For religious purposes.
· For occupational safety purposes.
· For physical protection if worn while operating a motorcycle, bicycle, or similar device.
· For athletic purposes while participating in an athletic contest.
Several states and countries have had bans on the use of masks during public gatherings for over a century, many of which originated to prevent the Ku Klux Klan from intimidating and terrorizing their victims.
As the 2025 session gets underway, Byrne encourages residents of Senate District 47 to contact him with any questions or comments they may have. Byrne can be reached by filling out a "Contact Me" form online at www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Byrne or by phone at 800-382-9467.