LAKELAND, Fla. (WFLA) — Publix, which has nearly 900 stores in the Sunshine State, is allowing open carry in its Florida stores after a judge overturned the state’s ban last month.

“As of Sept. 25, 2025, Florida law allows the open carry of firearms. Publix follows all federal, state and local laws,” said a spokesperson in an email to News Channel 8.

The guidance from the state's attorney general states private business owners may still "compel individuals carrying firearms to leave their premises."

“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,” wrote the Publix spokesperson in a statement.

Lakeland’s Dar

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