The New York Times reported July 30, 2009 that Charles E. Schumer, along with three other Senators are sponsoring a bill to curb texting while driving. The legislature in New York recently passed such a measure and sent it to the governor for a signature. Currently texting while driving is banned only in 14 states. Studies have shown that it is at least as dangerous as drinking and driving. The federal bill would exert pressure on States by withholding federal highway funds if they do not outlaw texting and emailing while driving.

Repair New York Bridges Before a Tragedy
In Western New York, the Federal Highway Administration has classified 195 bridges as structurally deficient. In the Rochester-Finger Lakes Region, 214 bridges as structurally deficient. In the Southern Tier, 354 bridges classified as structurally deficient by the FHA.