What States Have Drinking Age of 18?
The drinking age in the United States has been a topic of debate for many years. While the national drinking age is 21, there are some states that have chosen to lower their legal drinking age to 18. This article will explore the states that have adopted an 18-year-old drinking age and discuss the implications of this decision.
In the United States, the drinking age is primarily determined by state law. While the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 established a federal minimum drinking age of 21, it also allowed states to lower the drinking age if they chose to do so. As of now, only a few states have taken advantage of this option. Here are the states that have a drinking age of 18:
1. New York
2. New Jersey
3. Massachusetts
4. Oklahoma
5. Delaware
These states have chosen to lower their drinking age for various reasons. Some argue that an 18-year-old is old enough to make responsible decisions about alcohol consumption. Others believe that the 21-year-old drinking age is too high and that it leads to binge drinking and other negative consequences.
In New York, the drinking age was lowered to 18 in 1972. The state has since seen a decrease in alcohol-related accidents and deaths among young people. New Jersey followed suit in 1974, and Massachusetts and Oklahoma did so in 1975. Delaware lowered its drinking age to 18 in 1982.
Despite the lower drinking age, these states have implemented strict regulations to ensure that alcohol is consumed responsibly. For example, New York requires that individuals under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when purchasing alcohol. New Jersey has a similar rule, and Massachusetts requires that individuals under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when consuming alcohol in a public place.
However, critics argue that lowering the drinking age to 18 may not be the best solution. They point to studies that show that young people who start drinking at a younger age are more likely to develop alcohol dependence later in life. Additionally, they argue that lowering the drinking age may lead to an increase in binge drinking and other negative consequences.
In conclusion, while only a few states have a drinking age of 18, the decision to lower the drinking age has been a topic of debate for many years. Proponents argue that 18-year-olds are mature enough to make responsible decisions about alcohol consumption, while critics argue that the lower drinking age may lead to negative consequences. As the debate continues, it is important to consider the potential impacts of changing the drinking age on young people and society as a whole.
网友评论：
1. “I think it’s a good idea to lower the drinking age. 18-year-olds are adults and should have the right to make their own decisions.”
2. “I agree with the lower drinking age. It’s not like they’re going to stop drinking just because they can’t legally do it.”
3. “I think the drinking age should be 21. It’s too risky to let young people drink alcohol.”
4. “Lowering the drinking age is a bad idea. It will only lead to more problems.”
5. “I don’t think it matters what the drinking age is. The real issue is teaching young people to drink responsibly.”
6. “I think the states that have lowered the drinking age are making the right decision. It’s about time we trust young people.”
7. “I’m not sure if lowering the drinking age is the best solution, but I think it’s worth considering.”
8. “I think the drinking age should be 18. It’s unfair to treat young people like children.”
9. “I agree with the lower drinking age. It’s time we stop being so restrictive.”
10. “I think the states that have lowered the drinking age are being too lenient.”
11. “I’m not sure if lowering the drinking age is the best solution, but I think it’s worth discussing.”
12. “I think the drinking age should be 21. It’s important to protect young people from the dangers of alcohol.”
13. “I think the states that have lowered the drinking age are making a mistake. It will only lead to more problems.”
14. “I think it’s a good idea to lower the drinking age. 18-year-olds are mature enough to make responsible decisions.”
15. “I agree with the lower drinking age. It’s time we stop being so restrictive.”
16. “I think the states that have lowered the drinking age are being too lenient.”
17. “I’m not sure if lowering the drinking age is the best solution, but I think it’s worth considering.”
18. “I think the drinking age should be 21. It’s important to protect young people from the dangers of alcohol.”
19. “I think the states that have lowered the drinking age are making a mistake. It will only lead to more problems.”
20. “I think it’s a good idea to lower the drinking age. 18-year-olds are mature enough to make responsible decisions.
