Oregon Could Become First State to Ban Secret Police Through Constitution

Bipartisan Oregon lawmakers, Rep. Tom Andersen (D-South Salem) and Rep. Cyrus Javadi (R-Tillamook), made public a proposed amendment on Friday that seeks to ban the so-called “secret police” through an amendment to the state’s Constitution, enshrining transparency requirements for law enforcement, including those who wear masks, such as ICE members.

Oregon Lawmakers Seek Change To Constitution To Enshrine Law Enforcement Transparency

The proposed constitutional amendment, introduced by bipartisan lawmakers, would prohibit masked law enforcement officers and require officers to display their names and badge numbers.

Specific exemptions are tabled for inclusion for SWAT teams and undercover operations, preserving existing law enforcement practices and the viability of exempted specialized units.

The proposal is a defense of democratic norms. It comes as supporters expressed concerns about “unidentified federal ICE officers” conducting violent, warrantless arrests. In a joint statement, the representatives indicated that it is a measure seeking to stand up to the anti-American, malignant forces of authoritarianism.

The lawmakers from both sides confirmed that the joint proposal has bipartisan support:

Rep Andersen said, “Simply put, secret police have no place in a free and democratic society because public trust in government erodes when you don’t know who’s enforcing the law.”

Rep Javadi said, “Transparency isn’t a Republican value or a Democratic value, it’s an American value. And Oregon can lead the way by putting that principle directly into our Constitution.”

Rep. Andersen confirmed that Oregon’s Constitution protects essential freedoms and asserted that the current crisis demands that it must now also prohibit the activities of Secret Police. Rep. Javadi indicated that Oregon can lead the way by enshrining the proposed transparency principle directly in the state’s Constitution.

Critics of the measure have pointed out that the amendment could hinder effective policing operations, especially in tense or high-risk environments. Transparency could also undermine covert investigations and tactical responses.

Legal challenges centered on public safety exceptions and definitions of words such as “masked” and other broad language may invite ambiguity into Oregon’s Constitution. Litigation could also ensure, particularly over what qualifies as “secret police.”

If passed during the 2026 short legislative session, the measure would go to voters in the November 2026 general election. However, under Oregon law, a constitutional amendment must receive majority support in both legislative chambers before appearing on the ballot.

A simple ballot majority vote would write the amendment into law after passing the required stages.