I speak from personal experience as an 18 year old and say that it's contradictory that 18-year olds can go to war but cannot legally consume alcohol or tobacco. It represents a discrepancy in the way our society measures maturity and responsibility. As per the Department of Defense, there are approximately 150,000 military members who are under the age of 21. These individuals risk their lives for our country, and yet, they are not allowed the freedom to consume alcohol or tobacco if they choose to.

Furthermore, this issue is not solely about personal freedom but also about consistency in legislation. If we believe that 18 is the age of adulthood where one can vote, marry, and serve in the military, it is inconsistent and illogical to argue that 18-year-olds are not mature enough to make decisions regarding tobacco or Alcohol use.

By harmonizing the ages at which individuals can serve in the military, smoke and drink, we would bring consistency to our laws and respect the fact that 18 is the legal age of adulthood.

We urge legislators and concerned citizens to consider this somewhat ironic double-standard. Let's align the drinking and smoking ages with the age at which our country trusts its young people to serve in the military. Please sign this petition if you agree that it's time for this change.