By Suzanne Ma
DNAInfo Reporter/Producer
Nearly 100 New York teens have been killed in the past five years because drivers were texting behind the wheel, according to a new study by Sen. Chuck Schumer. The New York Senator is urging Congress to pass the ALERT Driving Act, which would force states to pass laws banning texting while driving. New York's ban, signed by Gov. David Paterson this year, will go into effect Nov. 1.
The FDNY may use new geographic information system software to relocate firehouses to meet changing population patterns. The software would also give firefighters access to critical information, such as the layout of burning buildings, before they arrive at the fire.
Two trade group are suing New York City over its recycling law, which will make electronics manufacturers provide free collection of electronics weighing more than 15 pounds. Similar laws are being adopted across the United States where 19 states now require the recycling of old electronics, which contain both precious metals and toxic pollutants. Thirteen other states are also considering laws to prevent old electronics from piling up in garages and closets and getting dumped overseas.
Two New York men arrested for tweeting the movements of local police officers at the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh say it's free speech. But police claim the tweets aided protesters' criminal activity. The charges raise questions about the use of technology in areas where the First Amendment and potential criminal activity converge.
Three American scientists have been awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine. Their research focused on telomerase, an "immortality enzyme" that allows cells to divide continuously without dying and could play a role in the uncontrolled spread of cancer cells. The prestigious Nobel Peace Prize winner is to be revealed in Oslo on October 9.
