EDExpress 2025-26 Release 2.0 Service Update Available

The U.S. Department of Education has released an update for its EDExpress software for the 2025-26 award year. Release 2.0 is now available for download, providing necessary program updates for institutions participating in federal student aid programs.

USCIS Updates VAWA Program Integrity Guidance

USCIS has updated its Policy Manual guidance for the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) program to restore program integrity and combat fraud. The changes clarify eligibility requirements and evidence expectations for self-petitioners, particularly in response to increased filings from non-traditional demographics and recent fraud convictions.

DHS, DOJ Rule on Asylum Eligibility for Security and Health Risks

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) have issued a final rule, effective December 31, 2025, that withdraws certain outdated amendments from a 2020 rule. This action retains the ability to consider public health risks as a security bar to asylum and withholding of removal during public health emergencies.

USCIS to Increase Premium Processing Fees Due to Inflation

USCIS is increasing fees for premium processing services to account for inflation, as authorized by the USCIS Stabilization Act. The new fees, effective March 1, 2026, will help fund adjudication and naturalization services. Specific fee increases are detailed for various petition and application types.

FY 2027 H-1B Cap Registration Period and New Selection Process

USCIS announced the FY 2027 H-1B cap initial registration period will be from March 4 to March 19, 2026. A new final rule implements a weighted selection process prioritizing higher-skilled and higher-paid aliens to protect American workers' wages and job opportunities.

H-2B Visa Cap Reached for Returning Workers FY 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that the cap has been reached for the first allocation of returning worker H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2026. The agency received more petitions than available visas and used a random selection process for petitions received between February 2 and February 6, 2026.

Pennsylvania Insurance Department Overview

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department provides an overview of its mission to protect consumers, license insurance professionals and companies, and regulate the insurance marketplace. The page highlights key services and programs, including assistance with health plan denials, surprise medical bills, and mental health parity.

Pennsylvania Insurance Department Filings, Reports, and Orders

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has posted a webpage detailing various filings, reports, and company orders available to the public. This notice serves as a central point of access for consumers, producers, and companies seeking regulatory information and services.

Pennsylvania Implements Pharmacy Benefit Reform Act

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has implemented the Pharmacy Benefit Reform Act (Act 77). This act introduces new regulations aimed at reforming pharmacy benefits within the state's insurance market. The specific details of the implementation and its impact on stakeholders are outlined in the department's resources.

Pennsylvania Insurance Department Regulatory Updates and Consumer Protection

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has updated its website to provide information on consumer protection, licensing, and regulation. The page offers quick links for consumers, producers, and companies, along with details on popular programs and services.