The Associated Press

COLUMBUS - Proponents of a new state law allowing people to carry hidden guns say the application process should be easier.

"A conceal/carry permit shouldn't be any different than a driver's license or a marriage license," said Gerard Valentino of suburban Pickerington, regional representative of Ohioans for Concealed Carry.

More than 450 licenses have been issued in central Ohio since the new state law took effect a month ago. Sheriffs have 45 days to issue or deny permits under the law, and some county officials say they need every day.

In Franklin County, applicants have to wait about a month for an appointment to submit their paperwork. Sheriff Jim Karnes' office takes appointments four hours a day, three days a week.

So far, 246 permits have been issued and about 40 applications are pending. Permits typically are issued about a week after paperwork is filed.

Valentino received his permit two weeks after applying. He said Franklin County officials are doing a good job once people get in the door, but requiring appointments is hampering the process.

Computer problems at the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification also can delay people getting their permits, said Emmett Wheeler, who works on the applications in the Franklin County sheriff's office.

Wheeler said it also takes longer for FBI background checks for applicants who have moved from another state in the past five years.

Matthew Eyen of suburban Westerville said his appointment made it easier rather than more difficult. He received his permit a week after applying.

Applicants in Delaware County can turn in their paperwork immediately but have to wait about a month to get their permits. Sheriff Al Myers issued the first two permits in the county Tuesday. Nearly 400 applications are pending.

Fairfield County Sheriff Dave Phalen has issued about 150 permits and has 180 applications pending. In Licking County, about 60 permits have been issued and about 80 more applications are pending.

Union County has 175 applications but hasn't granted any permits. Neither has Pickaway County which has taken about 100 applications.