Devices and methods are provided that control gas flow to a plasma arc torch local to a torch handle. Generally, a plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a gas control device operable with a torch lead and a torch head, and an activation member operable with the gas control device. Accordingly, the activation member activates the gas control device such that gas flow is supplied from the torch lead to the torch head, and the activation member deactivates the gas control device such that the gas flow is terminated. Further, the activation member may comprise a trigger system, a button, or a safety member, among others. Moreover, the gas control device may comprise a gas control valve or a switch that activates a gas control device disposed within a power supply, among others.