Walmart’s Decision to Stop Gun Sales after Catastrophic Shootings
Walmart announced its intentions to discontinue all sales of short-barrel rifle ammunition which can be used with military-style weapons. They also announced to stop sales of handgun ammunition and all handgun trades in Alaska after two horrific shootings at their store during summer.
They are asking customers at Walmart and Sam’s Club to no longer carry firearms openly in stores, states or where open carry is allowed unless in the presence of authorized law enforcement officers. According to Dan Barlett, the executive president of corporate affairs, open curry regulations is also currently on the books in more than 26 states.
Walmart mentioned that it would not be changing its policies for customers with permits for concealed carry. They will also be adding signage to stores to communicate these changes. According to CEO Doug McMillon, they believe the opportunity for someone to misinterpret a situation even in open carry states could lead to catastrophic results. McMillon said that they hope everyone would understand the circumstances which led to the new policy and will respect the concerns of their fellow shoppers and their associates.
He also said that they have been listening to many people inside and outside of the company as they think about the role they can take part in helping make the county safer. He added that it was now clear to them that the quo is unacceptable. McMillon said that he would send letters to the White House and other Congressional leaders requesting action on “common-sense measures.” He is calling on the government to reinforce background checks and to take away weapons from those who pose an imminent danger.
The announcement from Walmart came after the retailer has faced backlash from its employees for not pulling weapons from stores after the horrific shootout in July at Walmart stores in Mississippi and one in August in El Pas, Texas where 22 people were killed.
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