WASHINGTON (WTNH) – Connecticut delegates are calling for a statewide ban of openly carrying firearms in food stores.

Senators Richard Blumenthal, Chris Murphy and Representative Elizabeth Esty of Connecticut are calling on the Connecticut Food Association (CFA) to implement a new policy that would ban individuals from openly carrying firearms in CFA member stores. In a letter to CFA President Wayne Pesce, the delegation emphasized the importance of prioritizing employee and customer safety and has also mentioned other stores, like Target, Starbucks and Chili’s that have already implemented similar measures.

“There is simply no reason someone would need to bring their gun with them in order to purchase milk, bread, or other necessities at a grocery store. Customers should feel safe while shopping, and employees should not be fearful while doing their jobs,” wrote Blumenthal, Murphy, and Esty.

Connecticut law currently allows anyone with a permit to openly carry a handgun, but private businesses can prohibit open carry in their stores.