Connecticut is one step closer to banning "bump stocks"-- devices that allow semi-automatic rifles to fire more rapidly.

After a lengthy debate Tuesday night, the state Judiciary Committee approved the ban 26 to 6.

The Las Vegas shooter used bump stocks, ultimately killing 58 people and injuring hundreds more at a country music festival when he opened fire from a hotel window.

In a statement, Gov. Dannel Malloy said in part: "Make no mistake, this is a step in the right direction. As we have heard – loud and clear – from students and activists in recent weeks, Connecticut cannot afford to sit back while Congress continues to capitulate to the demands

of the NRA while ignoring the demands of the vast majority of the American people. The legislation passed today is the definition of common sense."

Similar bills have been signed into law in states like Massachusetts, Florida and New Jersey.

The Judiciary Committee also approved a ban on "ghost guns" -- guns that don't have serial numbers that you can put together yourself.

The full state House will now vote on the bills.