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.

Recall of Freezer Gel Packs Due to Ingestion Hazard
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of Ice/Hot and Ice Gel Packs manufactured by California Innovations Inc., of Toronto, Canada. About 880,000 (about 248,000 units associated with lunch boxes and 55,000 associated with food carriers were previously recalled in January 2012).