Policy Updates
Immigration policy changes from the Federal Register, explained in plain language.
SEC Notices Nasdaq PHLX Accelerating Legacy Port Shutdown to Jan 1, 2026
Nasdaq PHLX completed its technology migration on December 8, 2025, and is now pulling the plug on legacy trading ports two months earlier than planned. Members still holding legacy SQF, SQF Purge, or CTI ports need to return them before year-end or face fees for ports that no longer work. This change has no impact on F-1, H-1B, or other visa holders.
DHS Overhauls H-1B Lottery: Higher Pay Now Means Better Odds Starting FY2027
The H-1B lottery is no longer truly random. Starting with the FY2027 registration season, DHS will give higher-paid applicants better odds of selection — meaning your salary level could determine whether you even get a shot at the cap. Here's exactly how the new weighted system works and what it means for workers and employers.
DHS Ends Family Reunification Parole for 7 Countries — Deportation Deadline January 14
DHS is shutting down Family Reunification Parole programs for nationals from Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras. If you're in the US under one of these programs, your parole — and your work authorization — ends January 14, 2026, unless you already filed for a green card. Time is critically short.
NYSE Arca Tweaks Options Fee Schedule — What Market Makers and Broker-Dealers Should Know
NYSE Arca quietly updated its options fee schedule effective December 1, 2025, adding a new lower-threshold pricing tier for broker-dealers and a fresh incentive for market makers posting liquidity in IWM, QQQ, and SPY. If you trade options on NYSE Arca, these credits could change what you earn per contract. The changes took effect immediately upon filing with the SEC.
DOT Grants Hazmat Special Permits to Tesla, SpaceX, and Others — Dec 2025
The Department of Transportation's hazmat safety office approved a dozen special permits in December 2025, covering everything from Tesla's recalled lithium-ion batteries to SpaceX explosives for rocket testing. These administrative approvals let companies temporarily bypass standard hazardous materials transport rules. No visa or immigration issues are involved — this notice does not affect F-1, H-1B, or other visa holders.
DOT Opens Comment Period on 23 Hazmat Special Permit Applications
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published 23 new applications for special permits, covering everything from Blue Origin rocket components to lithium-ion battery shipments by cargo aircraft. Companies seeking exemptions from standard hazardous materials transport rules have until January 5, 2026 to receive public comments. This notice has no direct impact on visa holders or immigration status.
FCC Wants Your Caller ID to Show Who's Really Calling — Here's What's Proposed
The FCC is proposing major upgrades to caller ID that could finally tell you a verified name — not just a phone number — when your phone rings. The plan would also flag international calls and ban overseas spoofing of U.S. numbers. This is a proposed rule, so the public can weigh in before January 5, 2026.