Publix to allow open carry of guns inside Florida stores, officials say

Publix will allow open carry inside stores

Publix has announced that it will now allow customers to openly carry firearms inside its stores. The decision comes about two weeks after an appeals court ruling overturned the state's ban on open carry. FOX 35's Marley Capper walks us through what the grocery store giant is saying.

FLORIDA - Publix has confirmed with FOX 35 News that it will allow customers to openly carry guns in its Florida grocery stores.

Here's what we know. 

Florida's largest grocery chain to allow open carry

What we know:

Publix will allow open carry of guns inside Florida stores, according to officials. 

Publix's decision comes after a court ruling struck down the state's long-standing ban on open carry.

A spokesperson with Publix says they follow all federal, state and local laws.

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In a statement to FOX 35, Publix leaders said, "Treating customers with dignity and respect is a founding belief at Publix. In any instance where a customer creates a threatening, erratic or dangerous shopping experience — whether they are openly carrying a firearm or not — we will engage local law enforcement to protect our customers and associates."

What do other retailers say about open carry?

Dig deeper:

Several other major retailers, including Walmart and Sam's Club, are prohibiting open carry. Walmart posted on its website, asking for customers to refrain from openy carrying guns unless they are authorized law enforcement officials. 

Open carry now in effect in Florida: What to know

As of Thursday, Florida's open carry is now in effect. This change follows a court ruling that struck down the state's ban as unconstitutional. Although you may now legally carry a firearm openly in Florida, there are specific guidelines to follow. FOX 35's Amanda McKenzie fills us in on what we need to know.

Open carry law now in effect

The backstory:

Florida's open carry law went into effect Sept. 25.

The decision came after a state appeals court ruled the ban unconstitutional on Sept. 10. There was a 15-day window to appeal the court's decision, but no appeal was filed. 

The change stems from a ruling by the First District Court of Appeal, which found the prior open-carry ban unconstitutional, a decision that is binding on all Florida trial courts. 

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The ruling does not extend to certain prohibited places, including courthouses, schools, polling sites and government facilities. Private businesses and property owners also retain the right to ban firearms on their premises. See a list of all prohibited locations and requirements here.

You must still meet eligibility requirements to carry a firearm, such as being 21 years of age or older and not being prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior conviction.