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From ICCFA Over the weekend, the Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that the August 1, 2010 effective date for screening all air cargo shipped by passenger flights would not apply to human remains for the time being. The text of the announcement states: "The current screening protocols for Human Remains (HR) shipments will remain in effect on August 1, 2010, when the 100% air cargo screening Congressional mandate becomes effective. TSA is continually reviewing the current HR screening protocols. Our timeframe for 100% screening of HR will remain flexible as we continue to work with your industry to find viable screening and possible alarm resolution solutions. We strongly encourage the funeral industry to remain engaged in the process and foster continued dialog with TSA and the airlines so that your industry is prepared when additional screening measures are required." The ICCFA contacted TSA officials to clarify the practical implications of this statement. We received confirmation of our interpretation, that is, the 100% screening requirement effective on August 1, 2010, will not apply to human remains on that date or thereafter until further notice. We understand that there would be an advanced notice of the new effective date of say, 60 or 90 days in advance. We appreciate that TSA is giving our industry 120-day notice that the current screening protocols will remain in effect on August 1, 2010, and presumably thereafter. In addition, we understand that TSA strongly advises funeral homes and related businesses that are applying to be CCSFs (Certified Cargo Screening Facility) or ICSFs (Independent Cargo Screening Facility) should continue to pursue this certification process diligently and not delay. |