We call on Congress to amend the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 to lower the minimum drinking age to 18 nationwide. This change is long overdue and would restore fairness, respect young adults’ rights, and promote a more responsible approach to alcohol consumption. Additionally, we urge the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and federal agencies to collaborate with states to ensure safe and effective implementation of this reform through education and public health initiatives.

Why Lower the Drinking Age to 18?

 1. Trust Young Adults as Adults:

At 18, Americans are legally considered adults. They can:

 • Vote in elections.

 • Serve in the military, risking their lives for their country.

 • Sign contracts and take on financial responsibility.

Yet, they are denied the right to drink, undermining their autonomy and adult status.

 2. There’s No Evidence That 21 is the Magic Number:

The decline in drunk driving fatalities since the 1980s is due to:

 • Stricter DUI laws and enforcement.

 • Public awareness campaigns.

 • Advances in vehicle safety.

There is no conclusive evidence that raising the drinking age to 21 is the primary cause of these improvements.

 3. The Drinking Age of 21 Causes More Harm:

Prohibition for young adults drives drinking into unsafe, unregulated environments, like house parties, where binge drinking is common. This increases the risks of alcohol poisoning and unsafe behaviors.

 4. Global Comparisons Show a Better Way:

Countries like France, Germany, and Italy have a minimum drinking age of 18 or lower and focus on education and moderation, not prohibition. These nations see fewer problems with binge drinking and alcohol-related harm because they trust young adults and teach responsible drinking.

 5. Public Health Support:

We urge the FDA and federal agencies to work with states on:

 • Implementing public health campaigns that encourage responsible drinking.

 • Supporting public transportation and ridesharing options to reduce drunk driving risks.

 • Partnering with schools and communities to educate young adults about safe alcohol use.

The Solution:

We urge Congress to amend the National Minimum Drinking Age Act and set the drinking age to 18 nationwide. This reform would:

 • Treat young adults as responsible citizens capable of making their own decisions.

 • Reduce the stigma and secrecy surrounding alcohol consumption.

 • Encourage safer, regulated drinking practices.

 • Promote public health initiatives and ensure state collaboration.