Publix changes open carry policy to only apply for law enforcement officers
WSVN • • business
Key Points:
- Publix supermarkets have reversed their previous policy allowing customers to openly carry firearms in stores, now permitting only law enforcement to openly carry weapons, as indicated by new signage in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
- The policy change has elicited mixed reactions from shoppers, with some supporting the restriction for safety reasons and others opposing it, citing the right to self-protection and open carry laws in Florida.
- The reversal contrasts with Publix's earlier stance in October 2025, when the company confirmed it would allow open carry following a court ruling that struck down Florida's ban on openly carrying firearms.
- The new signage does not mention concealed carry, and Publix has not issued a formal announcement or responded to requests for clarification regarding the policy change.
