In the last 40 years, the number of guns in the United States has quadrupled. In Florida, the violent crime rate has increased 11 percent over the past 5 years. In 1993, approximately 172,450 violent crimes in Florida involved the use of weapons, including 54,072 involving the use of firearms. The Florida Department of State issued 196,555 concealed weapons permits between October 1987 and January 1994. An estimated 290,000 firearms were sold in Florida last year. According to the Florida Opinion Poll, 52 percent of Florida residents are extremely concerned about crime; another 31 percent are concerned about crime. Current Federal laws make it illegal to sell or dispose of a firearm to certain individuals. The Brady Bill became effective in February 1994 and establishes a waiting period and background check for handgun purchases. Florida requires record checks for the sale or delivery of all firearms, not just handguns. A subsequent article will focus on comparisons between Florida and other States with respect to firearms policies. Figures