Japan is introducing legislation toward lowering the legal age of adulthood from 20 years old to 18. The change won’t go into effect until 2022. This means the new law will not pertain to people who are currently 18 years old.
So what can the ‘young’ adults now do at 18 instead of 20? They can get married without permission from their parents, they can apply for loans and credit cards, and they can receive ten year passports instead of five year passports. The law-change will not allow for 18 year olds to drink alcohol, gamble, or smoke. You must be 20 years or older to take part in any of those things.
Japan population is quickly aging and they have a low birth rate. Therefore, the population number is decreasing. The country’s hope is that these young people will pay taxes to support government programs such as health care. The government hopes this new change empowers young people and motivates them spend more and contribute heavily to the economy.
There are still some concerns will giving these young people so much independence. Critics say that 18 year olds might not be responsible enough to make big decisions and are scared it may impact their coming of age ceremony. There are worries that the young people will have too much responsibility and won’t have the money to partake in the ceremony. Renting a kimono costs hundreds of dollars. There are also some grey areas. For example, will 18 and 19 year old people be treated as criminals or juveniles?
While the law is underway, there is still a lot to figure out.
