Today, we proved that progress can happen and that the Alabama legislature can come together to help solve real problems," said Rep. Philip Ensler.

The law, which goes into effect immediately, targets devices that turn semiautomatic handguns into makeshift machine guns.

The Birmingham mayor, who lost a brother and nephew in shootings, has expressed frustration over gun violence in his city. Police say the devices produce a rapid, hard-to-control spray of bullets that increase the number of casualties during a shooting.