It's been a few years since I've been to the USA. Has anything changed (what do I need to know about the TSA, etc)?

I'm an American expat and I'm heading home after a few years to see family, friends and finish some Stateside tasks.

Can someone clarify if I can't fly home with spent-battery electronics? Or bring a HDD without something to power it on?

Am I still capable of asking for an alternative to the full body scan?

Does the TSA still hand inspect my checked luggage?

Thanks in advance.