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.

Merck agrees to settle NuvaRing cases for $100 million
The drug company Merck will pay $100 million to resolve lawsuits of women involving the NuvaRing contraceptive. NuvaRing may well put woman at a greater risk of blood clots, and stroke than other birth control methods. As an attorney who handles defective and dangerous product cases,the evidence in