College presidents pushing lower drinking age
RBR/TVBR observation: We’ve always thought that if you’re old enough to be handed a gun and sent to die for your country, you’re old enough to enjoy a beer or a glass of wine. Beyond that, broadcasters should seriously consider getting behind this effort, 08/22/08 RBR/TVBR #165
Jim: I was very disappointed to see your endorsement of lowering the drinking age and your blanket encouragement for broadcasters as a group to "get behind" this effort in this last Friday morning’s RBR (8/22). For each person or group in favor of lowering the drinking age I believe that there as just as many (if not more) in favor of keeping it at 21 (which includes MADD, SADD, the Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board and many others). I personally feel "21" saves lives and prevents a lot of heartache while lowering the drinking age will only encourage teenagers and young adults to begin drinking earlier which will lead to more problems. A benefit of broadcasters airing this national discussion (without taking sides) is that it could lead to some new and effective ideas in helping to lower the incidence and ramifications of alcohol abuse by teenagers and college students.
Mike Moffett
Minnesota
