With H-1B cap reached, Congress has three options

12.06.2012

FY 2011, cap reached: Jan. 26, 2011.

FY 2010, cap reached: Dec. 21, 2009.

FY 2009, cap reached: April 7, 2008. (One week after the U.S. started accepting petitions.)

The fast pace of reaching the cap this year will likely trigger some calls for an increase in H-1B visas, though Congress is unlikely to act in an election year.

There are some other options, such as those listed below, for lawmakers looking to help the tech industry.