FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO) — A new bill filed in the Indiana Senate would prohibit people from wearing a mask at a public assembly if they’re trying to conceal their identity.
Senate Bill 73, titled “Masks at Public Assemblies,” and written by State Sen. Gary Byrne, a Republican from southern Indiana, has been referred to the Indiana State Senate’s Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law.
The bill would make wearing a mask at a public assembly a Class C misdemeanor. The penalty would be increased to a Class A misdemeanor for second and subsequent offenses. The penalty could also become a Level 6 felony if rioting or disorderly conduct occurs while wearing a mask.
The bill defines a mask as a covering over the nose or mouth and excludes certain types of coverings including a medical device, athletic equipment, and ones for a halloween costume.
A public assembly is defined as a gathering of at least 10 people in a public space or where the general public is invited.
SB 73 would go into effect on July 1 if passed in its current form.
