So the TSA is enacting a new rule about loose lithium batteries in checked luggage (link).  The strangest part is the list of exceptions (taken directly from the site):

• The batteries must be in their original containers.
• The battery terminals must not exposed (for example placing tape over the ends of the batteries).
• The batteries are installed in a device.
• The batteries are enclosed by themselves in a plastic bag.

Further down the page they talk about how they want to have the batteries in the cabin in case there is a fire.  This seems counter to what they just said about it being okay to have the devices in the checked luggage.  It’s enough to make your head swim…  I think that most of the cases of battery fires have been because they were in a device being charged or used.  I can’t see why this would be a problem in the checked baggage.  Is this just a case of a rule for rules sake?