A federal appeals court has blocked enforcement of a California law requiring federal immigration officers to display badges or other identifying markers while conducting operations in the state, pausing implementation as litigation continues.

The ruling was issued by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, which granted an injunction pending further appeal on Wednesday. The panel had previously issued a temporary administrative stay preventing the law from taking effect.

The statute, passed by California lawmakers in 2025, would have required federal immigration enforcement personnel, including agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to visibly identify themselves during operations. Supporters argued the measure was intended to increase transparency and accountability during enforcement actions.

The Trump administration, led by President Donald Trump, filed suit in November challenging the law. Federal attorneys argued that the requirement posed safety risks for officers, citing concerns about harassment, doxing, and potential violence, and contended that the state was improperly attempting to regulate federal operations.

The legal challenge also asserts that the law violates constitutional principles by imposing state-level restrictions on federal personnel performing official duties.

With the injunction in place, enforcement of the identification requirement remains suspended while the case proceeds through the federal appeals process. The court’s upcoming review will determine whether the block remains in effect or whether California may enforce the statute during ongoing litigation.