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.

Oral contraceptives triggering investigation
As reported in The New York Times, some researchers are claiming that the oral contraceptives “Yaz” and “Yasmin” are putting women’s health at risk. The risks associated with these two contraceptive pills are higher than average risk for blood clot or stroke.