The paper includes: (1) a brief history of methamphetamines and the origin of ice; (2) a discussion of the chemical makeup of ice, its production, administration, and distribution; (3) physical and psychological effects; (4) a summary of survey results from law enforcement agencies throughout the country regarding ice and a detailed look at the ice epidemic in Hawaii; (5) the media's role; (6) public policy concerns; and (7) recommendations on ways to address the implications of ice. Amphetamine is a compound that affects the central nervous system by accelerating activities; methamphetamine is a synthetically made amphetamine and is the most potent of the group. Ice is the smokable form of methamphetamine, deriving its name from its appearance. A study conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration found that methamphetamine trafficking and abuse are present virtually everywhere in the United States. The survey also noted that: (1) in cities reporting distribution of ice, it was in the gay community only; (2) most police departments believe that the media's publicity has created the ice problem; and (3) most cities do not have any legislation regarding precursor chemicals needed to manufacture ice, and do not have written rules or policies pertaining specifically to ice. Attachments, footnotes, appendix, references