Overview: With the funding deadline looming for the federal government on Dec. 20, Congress is expected to pass a continuing resolution, a disaster relief package, and a one-year Farm Bill extension as early as this weekend.
119th Congress: CCUSA published its priorities for the 119th Congress, including a list of policy issues and recommendations for consideration to help guide the new administration's work in conjunction with Congress. Throughout its history, CCUSA has worked with the administration and Congress to advance the common good of our nation, with special concern for families and individuals in need. Be sure to read CCUSA's priorities and advocate for them with your representatives.
Economy: In the week ending December 7, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial unemployment claims was 242,000, an increase of 17,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised up by 1,000 from 224,000 to 225,000. The 4-week moving average was 224,250, an increase of 5,750 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised up by 250 from 218,250 to 218,500.
Employment authorization for noncitizens. The Department of Homeland Security announced a final rule on December 10, 2024, that extends the automatic extension period for Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) from 180 days to a maximum of 540 days. This permanent policy change will benefit eligible noncitizens who apply to renew their work authorization on time. The new rule will take effect on January 13, 2025, and will apply to renewal EAD applications that are pending or were filed on or after May 4, 2022. This rule is part of the agency's effort to prevent interruptions in work authorization for eligible noncitizens due to a backlog of cases.