The AJJ reported today that Los Angeles Times (10/2, Geiger) reported that ” ‘In an effort to curb accidents caused by distracted driving, the Obama administration has banned federal employees from text messaging while driving and said it would consider new restrictions on cellphone use by rail, truck and bus drivers.’ President Obama ‘signed an executive order Wednesday night telling federal employees not to send text messages while driving on the job or in a government-owned vehicle.’ And ‘also Wednesday, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood called on state and local governments to pass laws to discourage distracted driving.’ “

HUD Secretary to Pay Visit
The Buffalo News reported today that “Gov. David A. Paterson unveiled a major initiative Thursday that would make Buffalo the initial focus of a statewide effort to end the spiraling nature of vacant housing”. It was also reported that Housing Secretary Shaun Donovan will visit Buffalo today regarding