OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — An Oklahoma gun rights group is urging lawmakers to oppose a Senate bill that would allow individuals 18 or older to openly carry firearms in the state.

The Oklahoma Rifle Association sent a letter to House members this week saying they opposed the bill by Sen. Steve Russell, R-Oklahoma City.

ORA President Don Scott says the group is opposing the measure because the purchase of handguns by anyone under 21 is a violation of federal law and that allowing citizens to carry rifles and shotguns into businesses or on the street will create "an atmosphere of hostility and distrust." Scott also cited concerns that law enforcement officers have with the proposal.

Russell says he is disappointed the group decided to oppose the bill without talking to him first.