So it sounds like the rule was changed for the battery connection - to just keeping the batteries disconnected until flying time.

Was the weight rule passed? If so, what IS the weight rule that passed? 5.5kg?

I am/was not in favor of changing the weight rule, especially with all the new e-pattern planes coming out - there will be a plethora of new and used options within the next few years. That being said, I ran a little poll a month or two ago, and was pretty shocked at how many people said they wouldn't attend, or were on the fence about attending NATS, due to a heavy plane.