Banning the head veils, under whatever specific type or name, is intrusion on personal space, it's clothing, and it's done so to "send a message", which in reality is a whole bunch of different messages, depending on who's listening.
Most likely the intended message wasn't even directed at muslims, but rather French voter bases, as a show of determination - albeit purely symbolic in its practicality
Several states in the US have anti-mask laws prohibiting hidden faces in public, some even include disguises like fake beards. Most note exceptions for things like holidays and theatrical productions where costumes are expected, but only finding three that make an exception for religion. The origin of anti-mask laws in the US relate to attempts to inhibit klan activity.
