Statement of Attribution to Glynn Birch, MADD National President

A new nationwide report estimates that 40 percent of underage drinkers received free alcohol from adults over 21.

Underage drinking is not just a youth problem but an adult problem. MADD believes adults should be held accountable for providing alcohol to those under 21 for the very reasons mentioned in this report. Parents and adult caregivers are the key to preventing underage drinking. There are many ripple effects and long-term negative consequences of drinking before the age of 21 including becoming dependent and the increased potential to drive drunk later in life.

MADD is not surprised by the recent report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Acting Surgeon General’s office. We are glad another important light is shining on this ever-present problem. We know solutions to the underage drinking problem center on 1) limiting social and retail access and 2) enforcing the 21 drinking age law that saves 1,000 lives a year as well as other important underage laws such as zero tolerance and graduated drivers’ licensing laws focused on teen driving safety.

We know the 21 drinking age has helped make tremendous progress by saving lives off the roads and on the roads and despite this, and the ongoing research showing the impact of underage drinking on society, some believe that decreasing the drinking age will somehow increase responsibility among those under 21. Lowering the drinking age would only open the doors further for younger drinkers. It just doesn’t make sense.

We must limit access, increase enforcement and support the 21 drinking age law. We must also talk to kids earlier before peer pressure begins because addressing the issue only in high school has been proven to not work as well as a comprehensive approach beginning in about 4th grade.

We must help protect the future of our youth by preventing underage drinking.

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