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.

Massive Toyota recall- questionable floor plan design
As reported in the New York Times the NHTSA is critical of the Toyota Motor Corp. charging it released misleading information about an investigation into problems with stuck gas pedals that led a huge Toyota recall.