The Buffalo News reported today that the Town of Amherst last Monday became the first Erie County municipality to pass a law that would prohibit drivers from composing, reading or sending a text message while behind the wheel. Violators face a $150 fine for each offense. It also reported that the Cattaraugus County Legislature passed a similar law in June. Niagara County and Erie County legislatures are expected to vote on similar proposed laws in the coming weeks.

House Passes Health Care Act
The AAJ reported today that the House passed the Affordable Health Care for Americans Act. This was a 220-215 margin. “Rep. Joseph Cao (LA) was the lone Republican to join 219 Democrats in supporting the bill, while 39 Democrats joined 176 Republicans in opposing it. About an hour