February 5, 2026 - In an effort to reinforce California’s continued leadership in protecting public safety, Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Tuesday a new gun safety tool to help Californians find clear, local guidance on how to file gun violence protection orders (GVPOs) and access community-based support.
The Local Resource Connector is an interactive online tool that allows users to enter a zip code or county to access tailored local information. This includes links to the appropriate superior court, the court’s self-help site, and trusted community-based organizations that can provide free or low-cost assistance.
The tool is an expansion on the state’s Reduce the Risk gun violence prevention campaign, a statewide effort led by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services in partnership with community organizations, behavioral health experts, and law enforcement. The campaign provides multilingual resources, training, and tools to help Californians understand and use prevention options effectively.
The announcement comes as California was once again ranked #1 in the nation for gun law strength and effectiveness, according to the new 2026 state ranking released by Everytown for Gun Safety. This marks another year that California leads the nation in comprehensive, life-saving gun safety policies.
A new, easier way to find local help
The Local Resource Connector is designed to help people navigate what can often be a confusing and stressful process. By entering a ZIP code or county, users can quickly find:
- The correct local court and self-help resources
- Community-based organizations that offer free or low-cost assistance
- Contact information, locations, and supported languages for local services
The tool serves as a clear starting point for individuals, families, and those supporting someone in crisis, helping ensure they reach the right resources the first time.
California’s leadership in gun violence prevention
Year after year, California has been recognized for having the nation’s strongest gun safety laws. The latest Everytown rankings underscore that leadership, reflecting policies such as universal background checks, safe storage requirements, waiting periods, and a robust system of protection orders.
Research consistently shows that states with stronger gun safety laws experience lower rates of gun deaths and injuries — reinforcing California’s public health focused approach to prevention.
Protection orders are a critical part of that strategy. California has nine different types of protection orders that temporarily require firearms and ammunition to be removed when a court determines there is a risk of harm. These tools have already helped prevent dozens of potential tragedies, including threatened mass shootings.
