The Legal Drinking Age

In the past few years, the legal drinking age has become a hot topic among people ages 18-21. Many believe the drinking age should be lowered to 18, while others believe it should remain at 21. Each side has a set of facts and arguments, which makes the decision process difficult for our government.

In 1984, the National Minimum Drinking Age Act was passed, which required all states to raise their minimum purchase and possession of alcohol age to 21. If they did not comply with this act, they would miss out on federal funding for highways. Since 1984, it has been estimated that over 16,000 lives have been saved. Underage drinking still occurs and 25% of all alcohol consumed is by underage people. Also, the leading cause of death among teens age 15-24 is alcohol related. In a survey from the 1991 to 1999, only 27% of high school students said they had never used alcohol. One can only imagine today, with the influence of alcohol in movies and on television, what the statistics look like. It has also been said that people who begin drinking at an early age are more likely to develop an alcohol addiction by the time they are 21 years old (The Legal Drinking Age, Emily Mason).

At the age of 18, one is considered an adult. They are allowed to vote, buy cigarettes, lottery tickets, get married, and fight for our country. However, purchasing and consuming alcohol, which is considered an adult thing, is not allowed at 18. According to Dr. Ruth C. Engs, a professor at Indiana University, the high drinking age has only made things worse. She believes that it would be better for 18, 19 and 20 year olds to drink in a controlled environment, such as a bar or restaurant, rather than in a dorm room or at a college party. If the drinking age was lowered, 18 year olds would stop seeing underage drinking as a way to rebel or feel like an adult and therefore would be more responsible drinkers. Underage drinking can be better prevented and teenagers can be better informed about alcohol consumption (Why the Drinking Age Should Be Lowered, Dr. Ruth C. Engs).

The debate about the drinking age could go on for decades, with further evidence presented from both sides. Which side are you on?