(Indianapolis) – A bill filed in the Indiana Senate would make it a crime to wear a mask at a public assembly if the intent is to conceal one’s identity, creating new penalties that could escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony under certain circumstances.
Senate Bill 73, titled “Masks at Public Assemblies,” was authored by Sen. Gary Byrne, a Republican from southern Indiana, and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law.
Under the proposal, wearing a mask at a public assembly with the intent to hide one’s identity would be a Class C misdemeanor. A second or subsequent offense would be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor. The charge could rise to a Level 6 felony if the masked individual engages in rioting or disorderly conduct.
The bill defines a mask as a covering over the nose or mouth, but includes several exceptions. Exempted coverings include medical devices, athletic or protective equipment, and masks worn as part of a Halloween costume.
A public assembly is defined in the legislation as a gathering of 10 or more people in a public place or a location where the general public is invited.
If approved by lawmakers and signed into law, SB 73 would take effect July 1.
The Indiana General Assembly is scheduled to reconvene on Monday as the 2026 legislative session continues.
