ST. LOUIS – A newly-proposed St. Louis board bill would ban facial coverings in various public areas. The alderwoman behind the bill looks to take a firm stand on public safety.

Pam Boyd, Ward 13 Alderwoman, sponsors Board Bill 2, which was introduced in April. The legislation would prohibit “the wearing of facial coverings when worn with the intent to intimidate or threaten another, or to conceal one’s identity in the commission of an unlawful activity,” according to its language.

The bill, if passed, would expressly ban people from wearing “ski-masks” in certain public areas, including on public transportation services and at related facilities.

The proposed ski-mask ban would also cover schools, parks, daycare centers, city-owner properties, public transportation, retail stores and other private properties without written permission from owners or tenants.

The board bill says violations could potentially lead to up to 90 days in jail or $500 in fines, if connected with the intent to intimidate or commit crimes.

The bill also lists exceptions for wearing a ski-mask, such as wearing such facial coverings for a traditional Halloween costume, for religious purposes and to protect from colder temperatures, among other purposes.

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While the bill expresses the ban would be critical for public safety, some opponents may raise concerns about personal freedoms and the restriction of the right to wear a facial covering.

Five other board bills sponsored by Boyd are set for discussion at the St. Louis Board of Aldermen’s agenda for Friday, though Board Bill 2 is not currently on the agenda .

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