The leader of the state’s largest police department on Friday denounced the new "constitutional carry” law as a step in the wrong direction.

“Saying that it makes communities safer, that’s (a) pretty tired and old statement, as far as I’m concerned," said Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty. "That’s not the case. We should be going the other direction and be more responsible about who we have carrying guns in this country.”

The new law, which goes into effect Nov. 1, allows most people in the state 21 and older to carry a concealed or unconcealed firearm without training or a permit. Military service members and veterans 18 years and older also will be allowed to carry firearms without a license.

Under current law, only limited training is required for people wishing to carry firearms in public, but Citty said it's better than nothing.