Japan's government has lowered the age at which people become adults. It is the first time since 1876 that this (happen): From the year 2022, teenagers will become happened, adults at the age of 18, two years (early) than the age at which adulthood currently legally happens, However, even though the age has been lowered, there (be) still certain things that will not change. The legal age for drinking alcohol, smoking and gambling (赌博) will remain fixed at 20. The new law will enable 18-year-olds to get married without parental (permit), and allow them to apply credit cards.
The new law has been passed in an effort (bring) about social and economic changes in Japan. The government hopes to see increase in the number of young people getting married and starting (family). This will help deal with the nation's decreasing birth rate and ageing population Greater financial freedom could help promote the economy, which is vital for a government (struggle) to handle the increasing pension and healthcare payments. Many of Japan's young people are more concerned about how the law will affect the traditional Coming of Age Day, a national holiday held in January 20-year-olds dress up in traditional kimonos (和服) to celebrate adulthood.
