A bill to allow certain military members to carry handguns in Oklahoma communities without a handgun license has been signed into law by Gov. Mary Fallin.

“Our military men and women are highly trained in combat and how to use weapons. Requiring them to get a license to carry a handgun is redundant and an expense our Oklahoma heroes shouldn't have to worry about,” said state Sen Kim David, R-Porter, the senate author of the bill.

Under Senate Bill 35, active military members and those who are in the Reserves or National Guard who are 21 years of age or older will be able to present a valid military identification card in place of a handgun license.

Military personnel who take advantage of the new law must carry a valid Oklahoma driver's license or an Oklahoma state photo ID card at all times when carrying an authorized pistol.