HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — Publix says it will now allow open carry of firearms in its stores, following a recent change in Florida law.

Reactions from shoppers in Hollywood were mixed.

“I come from Virginia — they’ve had open carry for years,” shopper Chris Zuk said. “Not a big deal at all.”

Others were less comfortable.

“I like westerns, but I don’t want to see nobody walking around with a weapon on their side,” shopper Darryl Williams said.

The new law allows open carry but includes restrictions: it’s still prohibited for those under 21 or with felony convictions. Private businesses can also opt out.

Noon report

Customers allowed to open carry in Publix bring mixed views Publix says it will now allow open carry of firearms in its stores, following a recent change in Florida law.

Winn-Dixie, for example, told Local 10 News it will continue to ban open carry in its stores.

“Our policy remains unchanged: we do not permit open carry of firearms inside our stores,” a spokesperson for the supermarket said in a statement.

So far, shoppers said they haven’t noticed any firearms in the aisles.

Publix embraces open carry as shoppers split on safety concerns

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Janine Stanwood