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.

New Bottle Bill Takes Effect
The Buffalo News reported today that a new bottle bill took effect today that will like result in an additional two billion bottles being recycled in the State of New York. It was reported that “The first update of the 1982 “Bottle Bill,” which provides a 5-cent deposit