In NY, the age of majority is 21, can you explain this for me?

Question

I know that the drinking age is 21, but in New York State is also 21 for the age of the majority. I am 19, does this mean I am still a minor in NY until I turn 21 (even though I am over 18)? And, I live with my parents still, does this mean that they are responsible for me until I turn 21?
Please explain in detail about this for me, and why NY is 21 when almost all other 50 states are 18. Thank you.

Answer 1

New York is at 21 for one reason only: the legislature and governor agreed that it was the appropriate age, and passed and then signed into law legislation making it 21.

However, the age of majority isn't terribly meaningful in New York - there are any number of things you can do below 21, including drive and vote...you can also be charged for a crime as an adult in New York well below 21...sometimes in your mid teens.

Parental responsibility does extend to age 21 under most circumstances - but there are a number of exceptions, too complicated to discuss in a forum like this.

Answer 2

New York requires the age of majority at 21 years old and it is their rule. The law may be different thereat but it is the law and you have no choice but to follow.