New York City Mayor Eric Adams is drafting legislation that would prohibit the wearing of face coverings across the city, arguing that masks enable harassment and antisemitic intimidation at protests. The measure is intended to go beyond a narrower statewide restriction adopted earlier this year. The rollout stumbled after the Anti-Defamation League and United Jewish Appeal—two groups that generally support tighter rules on masked demonstrators—called the draft “overly broad,” noting it lacked clear exemptions for religious garb or medical needs. In response, City Hall dropped a proposed penalty of up to one year in jail for repeat offenders and postponed two planned announcement events while revisions are made. First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, who is steering the initiative, said the administration is working with the City Council on changes. Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola, sponsor of a separate ski-mask bill, criticized Adams for bypassing already-introduced legislation. The mayor’s office maintains the ban remains “very much in play,” but it will need a sponsor and further negotiations before any vote can be scheduled.