Your questions doesn't make sense
How can anyone have been to Florida if they dont have a visa?
If you mean, has anyone been refused a visa to go to the US, then yes - search this section and the law section and you will find at least a couple of people
What is significancef January 2009?
Do you need a visa? When i last went (2008) there was a visa waiver agreement between UK and US. You have to fill a green card form though. But if you just say NO to all the questions on the form asking about convictions then would they really refuse entry?
there is a visa waiver which you can get if u have no criminal convictions. so what i mean is has any with minor convictions ticked that they havent got any and got through into usa. my friend has an assult charge from aged 16 and is now 25 and is coming to florida with me in 6 weeks.
Yes, we know about the visa waiver funnily enough, however, it is now done BEFORE you travel and not on the airplane - if that is what you are asking.
Type ESTA into google and you will find where to apply but make sure you (or your friend) don't pay as it is free on the right site. You need to apply at least 3 days before you travel
I also repeat, search the law and Travel section for more information