Apparently, the ban applies only to non-rechargeable lithium batteries, so there's at least one work-around available. One more reason why AMTRAK is looking more attractive.

Or, how about shooting a manual, film camera? That should reduce your battery load......

Jack Neubart, a regular contributor to SB, sent me this link with the information.
http://safetravel.dot.gov/whats_new_batteries.html

Just returned last week from China, via NorthWest Airlines. Coming through security in China, Japan and the US no one batted an eye at my camera case and I was carrying about every variation of battery known. A note though, coming back into the States, a Customs agent viewed every single pic on my camera, and it wasn't just because he wanted to see the scenery.

The customs agent was clearly a jerk. What did he hope to find? In my case he would have had to view some 7K images. I would have taken his name and filed a complaint with both customs and my Senators and Congressman.