The United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) published its final rule, effective as of October 19, 2011, governing the provision of facilities to achieve level boarding for mobility-impaired passengers on intercity, commuter, and high-speed trains.  The rule applies to new and altered passenger platforms and will establish performance standards to ensure that passengers with disabilities can get on and off of any accessible car that is available.  The final rule amends U.S. DOT’s Americans with Disabilities Act regulations and will apply to platforms constructed or altered after February 1, 2012.