N.Y. Civil Rights Law § 100: Definitions

§ 100. Definitions. For purposes of this article:

1. The term "face covering" means any item that is used to conceal,

disguise, or obscure the facial identity, including any opaque mask,

garment, helmet, headgear, balaclava, ski mask, neck gaiter, or tactical

mask. The term "face covering" shall not include:

(a) a transparent face shield;

(b) a medical grade surgical mask or N95 respirator worn to prevent

the transmission of diseases or illnesses;

(c) a mask or apparatus worn to protect against imminent exposure to

any toxins, gas, smoke, or other hazardous or harmful environmental

condition;

(d) a mask, helmet, self-contained breathing apparatus, or other

device necessary when worn to perform duties related to a water rescue

operation;

(e) a motorcycle helmet when worn by an individual using a motorcycle

or other vehicle that requires a helmet for safe operations;

(f) necessary protective eyewear;

(g) ballistic gear worn for the purposes of physical safety;

(h) camouflage gear worn for the purposes of blending in to a physical

environment;

(i) a mask or disguise worn for the purposes of active undercover

operations;

(j) a garment worn for religious purposes;

(k) sunglasses;

(l) facial hair; or

(m) any other item worn to follow applicable laws on occupational

health and safety, reasonable workplace accommodations, or to protect

the skin from frostbite during conditions that the law enforcement

officer reasonably thinks could cause frostbite.

2. The term "law enforcement officer" means:

(a) any police officer, as defined in section 1.20 of the criminal

procedure law;

(b) any peace officer, as defined in section 2.10 of the criminal

procedure law; or

(c) any federal law enforcement officer, as defined in section 2.15 of

the criminal procedure law.