New regs for Monday: Airplanes, trains, wellness programs

Monday’s edition of the Federal Register contains new rules for employer wellness programs, as well as protections for airline and train passengers.

Here’s what is happening:

Health plans: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is delaying new rules for employer wellness programs.

The EEOC proposed regulating the wellness programs offered by employer’s as part of their health insurance plans, but is now extending the comment period.

The public has until Jan. 28, 2016, to comment.

Airlines: The Department of Transportation is considering new protections for airline passengers with disabilities.

The Transportation Department said Friday it is “exploring the feasibility” of new rules to make sure airline passengers with disabilities have access to inflight entertainment, emergency oxygen equipment, service animals, bathrooms and seating accommodations.  

The public has 30 days to comment.

Trains: The Federal Railroad Administration is moving forward with new safety standards for passenger trains.

The safety standards would apply to the exterior doors of trains and are intended to protect passengers from injury.

The rule goes into effect on Feb. 5, 2016.