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.

Pfizer Agrees to $2.3 Billion Settlement
The CBS Evening News and the AAJ are reporting that Pfizer was hit with $2.3 Billion in fines for for violating federal drug marketing rules. Pfizer was accused of promoting the pain medication Bextra for uses that were not approved.