NH State Rep Files Bill To Let 18-Year-Olds Drink
CONCORD, N.H. (CBS) -- A New Hampshire lawmaker has filed a bill that would allow 18-year-olds to drink if they are in the presence of an adult.
State Rep. Max Abramson, R-Seabrook, says in his bill that underage drinking is a significant health problem that leads to car crashes and alcohol poisoning. By letting some teens drink in the presence of a "responsible adult" who is over 21, Abramson's bill states "younger people will no longer be initiated to alcohol consumption in the absence of adult supervision."
One representative who agrees with the bill is Hampton Democratic state Rep. Renny Cushing. He tells Seacoastonline.com he found it ridiculous that a nephew of his who served as a Marine in Iraq was not old enough to have a drink with him after coming home from combat.
"I think it's absurd that ... I can't offer up my own child a glass of wine," Cushing told the media outlet. "The problem is not alcohol. The problem is abuse."
Police chiefs tell Seacoastonline.com that they are strongly opposed to the bill and say it will lead to more alcohol-involved fatal crashes.