Many upperclassmen are reaching that point in life when they become 18 years of age. This is something that many adolescents look forward to as it opens up the doors to freedom, but also to real life.
Reaching 18 years old is a big moment in life for many. It is also the official age when a person is considered an “adult.” This means that all laws officially apply to that person and serious consequences can ensue. But this also allows for adolescents to do things that they have never been able to do.
Here are some of the main perks and downsides of becoming a legal adult:
Vote: After the 26th amendment was ratified in 1971, it changed the legal voting age from 21 to 18. This allows anyone 18 and older to cast their vote in local, state, and national elections. Before a citizen can vote, there is a registration process that is required. This registration information can be found here using the State of Iowa’s website. Voting is considered one of the most important parts of being a citizen. Enrique Riojas Berazaluce, junior, emphasized that “it’s not a right, it’s a privilege. No government has any higher responsibility to their people, there’s no outside force telling the US to give you the right to vote.”
Join the military: Once someone turns 17, they can join the armed forces. At 18, there is no parental consent required. They can enlist in the military and go fight for America. For males, registering for the draft within the first 30 days of turning 18 is critical. Failing to register can result in five years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine. Selective service is only required for males to this day.
No curfew: The City of Bettendorf has a curfew for those under 18 years of age. From 11 pm-5 am Monday through Thursday, and 12 am-5 am Friday and Saturday. The same restrictions apply in Davenport as well. Penalties for breaking the curfew law include up to a $100 fine and potentially community service. At 18 years old, these curfew restrictions no longer apply and these new adults are free to be out whenever they want.
Legality: Turning the age of a legal adult also means one will face the consequences of real life. There is no longer a juvenile detention center, instead there is jail. 18-year-olds are now processed and charged as adults. This can lead to much more serious consequences. “Juvenile court’s goal is to reform and divert that person from the adult criminal justice system,” stated Deputy Fah, school resource officer for Scott County. “Once you’re an adult, it’s time to put on your big boy pants.”
Jury Duty: Anyone 18 and over can be summoned for jury duty. If the person is currently enrolled in high school, they may not be required to serve. Other reasons include work and medical reasons. The duties of a juror include reviewing evidence in a court case to determine if a person is guilty or not.
On top of those main points, there are other things 18-year-olds can do such as work full-time, get married, change their legal name, create a living will and leave the house and become independent. Turning 18 leads to bigger responsibilities and consequences, but opens up new doors of freedom as well.
