By: Patricia Gannon, Esq. and Marcela Bermudez, Esq.

A stopgap measure was signed into law by President Biden averting a federal government shutdown. A federal shutdown is possible if Congress cannot reach an agreement on a spending measure or stopgap by March 14, 2025. We will continue to monitor and advise as this develops. As a reminder, if a stopgap measured is not reached in the future, certain federal immigration functions will be temporarily suspended.

Key impacts to note:

• Department of Labor (DOL) Immigration Functions:
  Processing of Labor Condition Applications (LCAs), prevailing wage determinations, and PERM applications will be suspended until Congress enacts a further stopgap spending measure or the FY 2025 budget is passed.
• Fee-Based Functions:
  USCIS benefit processing and State Department visa, and passport services will continue. However, delays are possible if the shutdown is prolonged.
• Program Expirations:
  The USCIS E-Verify system, the EB-4 Non-Minister Religious Worker Program, and the Conrad 30 Program will expire if Congress does not extend them before the shutdown begins.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation and keep you informed of any developments. If you have specific concerns regarding your immigration case or related matters, please do not hesitate to reach out.

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