MDLA stands for minimal legal drinking age. In 1984, the states agreed to raise their legal age to purchase or posses alchol to 21 to bring down the drunk driving. People who are for lowering the MLDA argue that it has not stopped teen drinking, and has instead pushed underage binge drinking into underground less controlled environments. People who feel the MDLA should not be lowered argue that teens have not yet reached an age where they can handle alcohol responsibly, and are more likely to harm or even kill themselves and others by drinking prior to 21.