When I turned 18 I could legally drink. It wasn't a big thrill, I didn't go nuts, I had been able to drink at home (reasonably) as long as I can remember.

My parents served watered wine at dinner, in the summer an afternoon beer was available and at Christmas and New Years traditional drinks were available.

I did the same with my kids. They learned to drink at home. Something which is now in many states a crime.

Since Ronnie instituted the 21 year old age limit we have seen some interesting results. Bing drinking is way up. I beleive because kids who haven't learned the affects of alcohol and how to drink responsibly go nuts when given the opportunity.

Some argue that the 21 year age limit keeps alcohol away from kids younger than 18. The facts show that that is not the case. recent statistics show that 75% of high school juniors have drank alcohol.

Some also argue that the age limit prevents car accidents and point to a lower number of accidents than when the limit was 18. What they fail to mention is that accidents for all age groups fell during that period. Factors like safer cars and seat belts are not mentioned. I beleive ascribing the lower accident rate solely to the change in the drinking law is faulty.

I think it is time to reexamine the drinking age. Anyone have any thoughts?

For more info on this see http://www.chooseresponsibility.org/

An exert from the site:
"The time has come to address the reality of alcohol in America"

CHOOSE RESPONSIBILITY is a nonprofit organization founded to stimulate informed and dispassionate public discussion about the presence of alcohol in American culture and to consider policies that will effectively empower young adults age 18 to 20 to make mature decisions about the place of alcohol in their own lives.

Alcohol is a reality in the lives of young Americans. It cannot be denied, ignored, or legislated away.

the legal age has always been 21, at least here in oregon anyhow, but for trying to change the law to 18, i feel there is going to be more problems so i dont think it would be a good idea, its not like we dont have problems with problem drivers now

I am for it, I mean why not? Oh, drunk driving...that's a good one, at 16 you can be a drunk driver if you know the right people. Given that there are probably more drunk drivers that are over the age of 30 because they have more "experience" then the younger kids (yep, I've been told that a lot). Teach your kids responsible choices, your kids will grow up making responsible decisions...let the TV teach, and you get Rambo for a son...

i agree with it.If an 18 year old can die for their country they should at least be able to have a beer.

I am really bothered that a parent cannot legally allow their children to drink in most states. It's a crime to teach your children responsible drinking habits?

Oh and please don't give me the argument that some people would abuse their children. Parents who are irresponsible with their children are and will be regardless of the law.

I strongly agree that if you are able to serve and die you ought to be able to walk into a bar and have a drink.

Random stuff...

Funny how times have changed. I remember being at a family celebration in a really lovely restaurant in Chicago when I was about fourteen. When champagne was ordered for the table the waiter discretely consulted my father who nodded yes and I was given a small glass of champaign. I am sure that would never happen today.

My Dad always let us have sips from his beer when we were younger.I never had a problem with alcohol till my twenties because back in the day parents were also allowed to kick your butt.Since parenting has been regulated,a lot more bull**** goes on.The government should stay out of our homes and out of the banking buisness.