Governor, New York: Lower the drinking age in New York State from 21 to 18.

Tell Governor Cuomo to lower the drinking age in New York State from 21 to 18.

Each year, over 40,000 people in the United States die because of binge drinking. For many, this begins in college, drinking to excess because they don't know their limits. If the drinking age was lower, young people would develop a healthier relationship with alcohol and know not to abuse it once they have the right to actually drink.

Many young people under the age of 21 already use and abuse alcohol. Because this is still illegal, they are forced to do this in secretive and dangerous ways. If caught, these individuals can face police action that can damage their futures and the rest of their lives. By keeping it secret and illegal, people under the age of 21 often end up in deadly situations.

By the time a person is 18 years old, they are able to join the Armed Forces, and must register for the draft. This means that they can die for their country without having even drank a beer. 18-year-olds are also allowed to vote for politicians running for political office. They may also be sent to jail for breaking the law. If 18-year-olds can die fighting for their country, vote and go to prison, they should be able to drink.