The Gun Violence Prevention Project (GVPP) is dedicated to addressing critical gun-related issues through research, informed policy advocacy, and proactive community engagement. Our primary focus areas include emerging firearm technologies such as ghost guns, 3D-printed firearms, Glock switches, and innovations aimed at firearm safety. Additionally, we will actively monitor and analyze California legislative proposals and bills concerning gun safety to inform our advocacy efforts. GVPP is a research-focused project where members develop research, writing, and communication skills.
Our core activities include:
- Conducting comprehensive research on prevalent gun issues in our community, including emerging firearm technologies (e.g. ghost guns, 3D-printed firearms, Glock switches, and emerging technologies aimed at enhancing gun-free zones) and gun safety policies (e.g. mandatory buyback programs, assault weapons bans, and background checks)
- Generating detailed reports on these topics and presenting findings during our meetings, fostering informed dialogue through structured student debates.
- Engaging directly with policymakers in California and elsewhere by providing informed testimony at committee hearings and advocating for legislative measures that effectively reduce gun violence in our communities.
Through these strategic initiatives, GVPP aims to influence meaningful policy change and promote safer communities. In Fall 2025, we will research firearm safety features that could make guns safer, supporting product liability lawsuits against gun manufacturers.
Supervision: Students will receive training from and provide pro bono legal services under the supervision of a Professor at UC Berkeley School of Law.
Time Commitment: GVPP will require a 2–3 hour time commitment per week.
For more information, please contact the student leaders at gvpp@berkeley.edu.