Blumenthal Statement On Starbucks’ New Gun Policy

(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement in response to Starbucks’ decision to change its policy on guns by encouraging customers to leave their weapons at home before entering the corporation’s coffee shops. Prior to this decision, Starbucks' policy on guns was to default to local laws, including "open carry" regulations that allow people to bring guns into stores.

“Starbucks has listened to its customers and conscience – and Congress should do the same. I commend Starbucks for heeding calls from concerned citizens across the country – part of the Connecticut Effect flowing from the Newtown tragedy. Coffee customers are no safer for carrying guns into Starbucks, or any other store or restaurant.”