The Biden administration has issued new rules that will require airlines to provide automatic cash refunds for delayed or canceled flights, as well as to disclose fees for baggage and other services more clearly. The new rules, which will take effect over the next two years, are designed to protect consumers and make it easier for them to understand what they are paying for.
Despite the implementation of a new $106 million unemployment system, called Frances Online, many unemployed Oregonians continue to face delays and difficulties in receiving benefits. The system, intended to resolve longstanding issues, has brought new challenges, including communication breakdowns and a lack of staff to handle the workload, leaving claimants like Caryne Mount and Nicole Powser in financial hardship. The Employment Department acknowledges the problems but claims that most claims are still being processed quickly, though delays persist for some. The Legislature has allocated additional funding to hire more staff, but it will take months to see the benefits of these hires. Despite criticism from the media and recommendations from auditors to hire an ombudsman, the Employment Department maintains that it is effectively addressing issues and that an ombudsman is not currently a priority.
Due to delays in testing new DLR trains, TfL has resorted to operating older B92 trains with reduced carriages to extend their lifespan. These trains have surpassed their retirement age, but cannot be scrapped until the new ones are ready. The Woolwich branch has switched to two-car trains, which will gradually be implemented throughout the week. This temporary measure aims to keep the old trains running until October, when the new fleet will replace them. The new trains will increase capacity by 60% and feature interactive steering wheels. For updates on the DLR makeover and other London transport news, subscribe to the Time Out London newsletter.
The MBTA’s Green Line and Red Line faced disruptions on Sunday evening due to separate incidents. The Green Line’s E branch was suspended between Heath Street and Brigham Circle after a car crash blocked tracks at Riverway. Shuttle buses replaced service on the Red Line’s Braintree branch due to a signal problem. A medical emergency at North Quincy station also caused delays on the Red Line. All service was restored by 1:30 a.m.
