by Midland Reporter-Telegram

College presidents from nearly 100 of the nation's institutions of higher learning are asking our lawmakers to consider lowering the drinking age from 21 to 18. We consider this request out of line and urge college presidents to take a pro-active stance in halting drinking practices such as binge drinking.

A movement called the Amethyst Initiative is recruiting college presidents to stir a national debate about the drinking age. The movement has gained a foothold into nearly 100 universities, including Ohio State, Duke and Syracuse as well as in the halls of Ivy like Colgate and Dartmouth.

The argument has always been the same, starting with the movement's unending mantra of "If you're old enough to fight, you are old enough to drink." Also, the point is made that current law is "routinely evaded" and is "unjust, unfair and discriminatory."

However, the college presidents seemingly want the drinking age lowered to battle college binge drinking. While the presidents' group has only formerly asked for a national debate on the issue, it is clear the intent is to seek a lowering the drinking age.

This seems to us as another way for college presidents to avoid taking responsibility for a huge problem on our campuses. It also can be expected that the drinking age on these particular campuses will not be upheld by the institutions seeking the change.

There is certainly room for debate on the drinking age question, but helping out the college presidents with their binge drinking problems is not at the top of the list.