Can enforcement of underage drinking laws be bad for a community?

Question

Im a 27 year old guy from MT and I've seen quite an increase in the enforcement of underage drinking laws here. When I was 18 there really wasn't any. Most of it came after some idiots got killed drinking and driving after a home comming game. DARE took the issue and ran with it. Why punish everyone because of the actions of a few? Why not just increase the drinking and driving laws? Before, all ages would come together and socialize at parties, around bonfires with a sort of mutual respect. The 18-20 kids would learn from hanging out with the older kids. I was introduced to "good beer" and moderation. Everyone was free and got respect. Now the over 21 kids dont hang out with the younger kids because they're worried about "contributing to a minor". The younger kids get together and binge drink as a main activity locked up in an apartment. They cant go to listen to music at the bars or be as social as before. They seem edgy and less mature now. The sense of community seems much less.

Answer 1

I think its a very good thing. You don't have to drink to have fun!!! :-)

Answer 2

I think the law treats young people badly by strictly enforcing drinking age limits. I was brought up in Britain where the age limit was 18 and not strictly enforced. Mostly we drank in civilised surroundings where there was some supervision; pubs which offered food, soft drinks and facilities for families. Here in NZ they've only recently lowered the drinking age to 18 and some wowsers want to raise it again. Like most sensible parents I supplied my underage kids and their friends with liquor and mostly they drank it at home without incident. It's the kids who are forced to drink at unsupervised beach parties who get into trouble, mostly as a result of drink driving.

Answer 3

i understand. there's always the risk that by coming down hard you drive it underground, where it is less supervised.

this is an age old problem. some parents let the kids drink because they're going to do it anyway, i want them here where they're safe (your viewpoint)...

some parents want to make sure no other parents are allowing it. because if it has to be done in difficult places that will reduce the occurence. that must be DARE's point of view.

there are merits to both sides. see if there is something you can do to help the teens mature...

Answer 4

Great point. Raising the legal drinking age doesn't do much to stop teens from drinking, anyway. As with most things, I think it's better to teach an "all things in moderation" policy and allow people to be responsible for themselves. Otherwise, as you say, we get a society of immature people.

Answer 5

You do make some very good points, and for the most part I agree with most of what you say, but unfortunately the legislative people don't see it that way.

Answer 6

the police need to enforce those laws; however, i hope they allow 18 year olds to drink alcohol legally.

Answer 7

Is this question a joke?