The first of several hearings on the Gun Violence Prevention Act of 1994 introduced and discussed the Act as comprehensive legislation to address gun violence through six discrete initiatives: (1) handgun licensing; (2) prohibition of firearms possession by persons convicted of violent misdemeanors; (3) regulation of gun dealers; (4) limitation of the secondary gun market; (5) requirement of gun safety courses; and (6) banning certain types of guns. Support for the bill was presented by the presiding senators, Paul Simon (Illinois) and Howard Metzenbaum (Ohio). Reservations about the necessity for the legislation, but not about the need for reduction in violence, were expressed by Senators Hank Brown (Colorado) and Orrin Hatch (Utah). A number of speakers supported the bill, with the Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders speaking first. Panel discussions with educators and physicians followed. The testimony of each witness is followed by his or her prepared statement. (SLD)