Publix reverses open carry policy in Florida stores

NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. —

Publix has reversed its policy on open carry firearms in Florida stores, now permitting only law enforcement officers to openly carry firearms while shopping.

When Florida became an open carry state, Publix was one of the first companies to allow customers to openly carry firearms inside its stores. However, the policy has now changed, and customers have expressed mixed reactions.

Julio Gonzalez of Cape Coral said, "Basically, I don't feel safe with that decision. We need to protect, and that is the only reason we carry a gun, not to intimidate, not to do anything wrong, it's just to protect the family."

James Vargas, also from Cape Coral, said, "I think it's our constitutional right to be able to bear arms. I think we should be able to carry our firearms anyplace."

Businesses have the legal right to decide whether customers can conceal or openly carry firearms on their private property. Simon Aguilar of North Fort Myers said, "I don't want my kids walking around a store seeing people brandishing firearms. Throw a shirt over it. I don't see an issue with being protective of yourself."

Publix’s new policy does not prohibit customers from concealing firearms in their stores. Austin Mendez of North Fort Myers said, "I do suggest they stay protected and openly carry, you know."

Jay Hernandez of Cape Coral said, "As long as shared spaces are safe for everybody and they're able to maintain safety, I think it's good."

Other major retailers, including Walmart and Target, have also banned openly carrying firearms in their stores. Aguilar added, "Be mindful of other people in the community for sure."

Publix has not yet responded to inquiries about what prompted the change in its policy.

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