WICHITA, Kansas, August 19, 2008 – Leaders of several American universities believe reducing the legalized drinking age from 21 to 18 will cut down on binge drinking – a common problem on college campuses. But many say it will just lead to more trouble.

Wichita State University’s Vice President for Campus Life and University Relations, Ron Kopita, calls the age 18 proposal naïve.

"There was a time in our history when the drinking age was 18 and the problems of alcohol of use and abuse existed then,” Kopita said.

According to research from Mothers Against Drunk Driving, since the drinking age became 21 across America, an estimate 1,000 fatal accidents a year have been prevented. MADD also says science shows the brain is fully developed at 21, enabling better decisions.

Many at WSU believe drinking at age 18 goes hand-in-hand with other rights you receive at that age.

"Going into the military at age 18, you're thought of as a man,” said…. “If you're a man you should be able to drink."

Other students point to voting rights. Still, others say it’s easy to get alcohol if you’re not 21. So, why not change the age?

Many Ann Khoury, of the DUI Victim’s Center of Kansas, points to just last weekend when a Derby teen was critically injured while attending an underage drinking party near Mulvane.

"We've got reports that are showing high reports of sixth graders saying how available it is,” she said.

Khoury believes lowering the age to 18 will grant countless more young people alcohol accessibility with ages 21 and 18 just three years apart.

KSN wants to hear from you! Chime In! Do you think the drinking age should be lowered? Go to the top of the KSN Web page and click on “Chime In” to post your comments. We’ll reveal some of your opinions after the Olympics.