Policy Updates
Immigration policy changes from the Federal Register, explained in plain language.
DOT Restricts Who Can Get a Commercial Driver's License as a Non-US Resident
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is locking down who qualifies for a commercial driver's license (CDL) in the US if you don't live here. Starting March 16, 2026, only foreign nationals on H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 visa status can apply — cutting out many other immigration categories that were previously accepted. If you hold or are applying for a non-domiciled CDL under any other status, your eligibility may be gone.
FMCSA Limits Non-Domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses to H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 Visa Holders
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is finalizing rules that restrict who can obtain a non-domiciled Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in the US. Only foreign nationals holding H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 nonimmigrant visa status will remain eligible, cutting off access for EAD holders, DACA recipients, and most other immigration statuses. The rule takes effect March 16, 2026.
NCUA Proposes Rules for Credit Unions to Launch Stablecoin Subsidiaries Under GENIUS Act
The National Credit Union Administration is proposing regulations to implement the GENIUS Act, which requires federally insured credit unions to use licensed subsidiaries to issue payment stablecoins. The proposed rule sets out an application and licensing process for these subsidiaries and limits credit unions to investing only in NCUA-licensed stablecoin issuers. Comments are due by April 13, 2026, with final rules required by July 18, 2026.
DHS & DOL Add 64,716 H-2B Visas for FY2026 — But Only for Businesses Near Collapse
DHS and DOL just unlocked nearly 65,000 extra H-2B temporary worker visas for FY2026, but there's a major catch: only employers who can prove they face severe, irreparable financial harm can access them. If your business depends on seasonal nonagricultural workers — think hospitality, landscaping, or seafood processing — this could be your lifeline. Here's what you need to know before the September 15 petition deadline.
H-2B Cap Expanded by 64,716 Additional Visas for FY 2026 Seasonal Workers
The Department of Homeland Security and Department of Labor are releasing up to 64,716 additional H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year 2026. These supplemental visas are reserved for businesses that can demonstrate they face severe, permanent financial harm without the extra workers. The visas will be distributed across three separate allocations based on when employers need workers.
Navy Seeks Approval to Disturb Marine Mammals During San Diego Bay Construction Projects
The U.S. Navy has requested federal authorization to incidentally disturb marine mammals during two construction projects at San Diego Bay naval bases. NMFS is accepting public comments through March 5, 2026 on proposed harassment authorizations covering up to six marine mammal species. These projects involve pile driving and removal work at Naval Base Point Loma and Naval Base San Diego.
PHMSA Seeks Public Comment on 9 New Hazardous Materials Special Permit Applications
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published notice of nine new applications for special permits to transport hazardous materials, including lithium batteries and infectious substances, under alternative conditions. Public comments are due by March 4, 2026. This notice has no direct impact on visa holders or immigration status.
NYSE Arca Adds Cash Settlement Option for Customizable ETF Options Contracts
NYSE Arca has amended its rules to allow certain highly liquid ETF-based FLEX Options to be settled in cash rather than requiring physical delivery of shares. The change applies to up to 50 qualifying ETFs that meet strict liquidity thresholds. This rule took effect immediately upon filing and mirrors rules already in place at other exchanges.
NSCC Proposes Streamlined Clearing for ETFs With Options Components
The National Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC) has proposed a rule change to simplify the creation and redemption of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that hold options as underlying assets. Currently, these transactions require fragmented manual processes outside of traditional clearing systems. The proposal would make NSCC the central hub for these transactions, routing option-related instructions to the Options Clearing Corporation (OCC) automatically.
Cboe EDGX Exchange Proposes Retail Price Improvement Program for Stock Orders
Cboe EDGX Exchange has proposed a new Retail Price Improvement (RPI) Program that would give retail investors better prices on stock trades by at least $0.001 above the best national bid or below the best national offer. The SEC is soliciting public comments on the proposal, which also clarifies how non-displayed orders behave on the exchange. This rule change affects stock market structure and does not directly impact visa holders or immigration status.
NOAA Streamlines Deep Seabed Mining Applications with New Consolidated Process
NOAA has updated its deep seabed mining regulations to allow applicants to apply for an exploration license and commercial recovery permit simultaneously, rather than sequentially. The rule takes effect immediately as of January 21, 2026. This change reflects decades of technological advances in seafloor mapping and deep-sea mining capabilities.
FCC Rescinds E-Rate Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending Program, Blocking Off-Campus Internet Funding
The FCC has reversed its 2024 decision to allow E-Rate program funds to pay for Wi-Fi hotspots lent to students and library patrons for home use. The Commission concluded it lacked legal authority under the Communications Act to fund off-premises internet access. Pending FY 2025 funding applications for off-premises hotspot services will be denied.