The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) air cargo screening regulations will become mandatory August 1. These regulations require 100% of cargo shipped on passenger aircraft to be screened at the piece level by August 1. This means shipments – including human remains shipments – must either be screened before reaching the air carrier (by a freight forwarder, indirect air carrier or Certified Cargo Screening Facility) or by the carrier itself. Please note: this new screening requirement is separate from the "known shipper" requirement that went into effect last year.

According to Tamika McCree, TSA director of air cargo stakeholder relations, "The current screening protocols for human remains shipments will remain in effect on August 1, 2010, when the 100% air cargo screening mandate becomes effective. TSA is continually reviewing the current human remains screening protocols. Our timeframe for 100% screening of human remains 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 dialogue with TSA and the airlines so that your industry is prepared when additional screening measures are required."

If you have questions about what will be required of you when the screening mandate becomes effective next week, contact the Advocacy Division staff in Washington, D.C: Senior Vice President of Advocacy John Fitch, 202-547-0441, or Director of Political Affairs Lesley Witter, 202-547-0877.

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