SAN ANTONIO (AP) -- An iconic Texas restaurant chain has said it will not allow the open carrying of guns on its properties, taking a stand against a new law allowing the practice in many public places.
The announcement came one month after the Texas governor signed the bill that made it legal to carry handguns openly on the streets of the Lone Star State. But the law, which takes effect in January, gives private property owners the right to prohibit open carry.
Whataburger has had some 780 locations in 10 states. Its CEO, Preston Atkinson, said in an open letter on the company's website that the chain has recognized that many employees and customers are uncomfortable around visible firearms.
Industry experts said Whataburger's decision was expected to spur other restaurants to enact similar policies.
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