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Policy Updates
Clarification on the New H-1B Proclamation
Since the September 19, 2025 presidential proclamation on H-1B visas was issued, new guidance has been released by USCIS, CBP, the Department of State, and the White House. This guidance aims to clarify who is impacted and when the new $100,000 fee applies.
DHS Ends Automatic EAD Extensions: What Employers Should Know
On October 29, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued an interim final rule (IFR), effective October 30, 2025, that eliminates the automatic extension of employment authorization documents (EADs) for most previously eligible renewal applicants.
In their recent article, Of Counsel Mary Pivec and Counsel Jason Levy explain what this change means for employees who rely on timely work-permit renewals and for employers trying to maintain compliance.
Supreme Court Allows DHS to End TPS for Venezuelans
On October 3, The Supreme Court cleared the way for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Venezuelan nationals — impacting approximately 350,000 people previously protected under TPS.
DHS Proposes Major Changes to F and J Student and Exchange Visitor Rules
In July, the Trump administration revealed a draft rule that would overhaul how the H‑1B visa cap is filled. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a proposed rule that would significantly reshape the way international students and exchange visitors are admitted to and remain in the United States. If finalized, these changes could alter decades of established practice and impose new compliance responsibilities on schools, universities, and sponsoring organizations.
E-Verify Resumes Operations Post-Shutdown
With E-Verify service restored on October 9, 2025, DHS has issued instructions for handling any case delays caused by the shutdown. Managing Attorney Nikki Whetstone, Esq. explains the key steps employers should take.
Project Firewall – New DOL Initiative
The Department of Labor has launched Project Firewall, a compliance initiative aimed at protecting U.S. workers and increasing scrutiny of employers in the H-1B program. Employers can expect more LCA investigations, broader use of third-party tips, and potential coordination with other agencies.
In this Q&A, Of Counsel Mary Pivec answers key questions about what Project Firewall means for employers, who may be at risk, the scope of possible penalties, and how to prepare.
Trump Launches Gold Card Program
President Trump’s new “Gold Card” program offers expedited immigration for foreign entrepreneurs and investors who make a qualifying $1–2 million contribution to the U.S. Treasury.
With the 90-day implementation period now underway (set to expire December 18), GYH will be monitoring developments closely. To learn more and access a copy of the executive order.
Florida Immigration Checkpoints
Attorney Valerie Mahoney explains how Florida’s conversion of agricultural inspection stations into immigration checkpoints affects the state’s equine and agricultural industries.
Understanding the New Public Charge Standard That Puts Weight on Trial
An unofficially released Department of State cable provided new instructions directing consular officers how to apply the public charge ground of inadmissibility.
The guidance broadens the scope of “health” considerations beyond what the regulations explicitly specify, requiring consular officers to evaluate conditions, including obesity, that fall outside the traditional structure for assessing the likelihood of someone becoming a public charge.
Original Content
Our Immigrant Stories: Juliana Carvajal Yepes
Originally from Medellín, Colombia, Attorney Juliana Carvajal Jepes came to the U.S. at 18 to pursue public service. Her journey—from an internship in D.C. to empowering immigrant entrepreneurs—shows how immigration can build community and opportunity.
Opinion: Reasonable Immigration Law Reform Is Not Just Humane—It’s Essential to Save Social Security and Medicare
In 2022 alone, undocumented immigrants contributed approximately $25.7 billion to Social Security and $6.4 billion to Medicare, even though they are completely barred from receiving these benefits themselves. With Social Security projected to become insolvent by 2033, these contributions are more important than ever.
Senior Counsel Denise Hammond explains why immigration reform is not just a moral issue, but a fiscal necessity. Expanding legal pathways for undocumented workers would strengthen tax compliance, stabilize our aging workforce, and help protect Social Security and Medicare for future generations.
The New $100K H-1B Fee Explained: Who’s Affected
Since September 19, 2025, presidential proclamation established a new $100,000 fee for certain H-1B visa petitions; uncertainty remains as to which petitions are subject to the fee. New USCIS guidance released October 20th provides further clarification regarding who is impacted and when the new $100,000 fee applies.
Extradition and Immigration Systems
When noncitizens are extradited to the United States, their legal challenges often extend beyond the criminal process. In our latest blog, Attorney Jaclyn Dennis explains how extradition intersects with U.S. immigration law, what happens after arrival, and key steps for navigating the process.
Family Preparedness Plan
GYH understands that uncertainty surrounding immigration enforcement can create deep anxiety for families. But with knowledge, planning, and trusted legal guidance, you can take concrete steps to protect your loved ones and your future. The GYH team has created a Family Preparedness Plan that can help you stay prepared for any situation.
The New Reality for International Students in America
Legal Intern Nila Ibrahimi explores federal action shaping the experiences of international students in the US and possible implications for universities and academic exchange.
Firm News
GYH Celebrated its 7th Year
The firm announced its inception through the merger of Grossman Law and Hammond Young Immigration Law on November 13, 2018.
Since its founding, GYH has grown from a team of 8 attorneys to 26, including new leadership and attorneys with specialized expertise.
Over the past seven years, GYH has been continuously recognized as a top immigration law firm by Best Lawyers®, Washingtonian, Chambers & Partners, Who’s Who Legal, and more.
We’ve continued to evolve by growing our bench strength, developing the International Protection Practice, expanding our Global Mobility Practice, and handling high-profile, complex immigration cases that shape the field.
Beyond our work in the courtroom and the boardroom, we remain deeply committed to pro bono service and advocacy
Firm Webinars
Past Webinars
Advanced Strategies for Business Immigration
Counsels Anne Rowley and Lauren Twist discuss EB-1A, NIW, E-2, and L-1 petitions—and strategies for success.
DHS’ Termination of Automatic Extensions for Employment Authorization Documents
On Nov 17th Of Counsel Mary Pivec and Counsel Anne Rowley hosted a discussion of the upcoming policy change ending the automatic 540-day extension of certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for renewal applications filed on or after October 30, 2025.
GYH About Town
International Bar Association Annual Conference
GYH was pleased to attend the annual conference of the International Bar Association (IBA) in Toronto. Managing Partner Sandra Grossman and Of Counsel Charlie Magri spoke on INTERPOL Red Notices and transnational repression.
Managing Partner Becki Young and Attorney Ariel Rawls engaged with international peers, sharing insights and building cross-border connections.
GYH Spoke at AILA DC Chapter Fall Conference
Becki Young, Patrick Taurel, and Dree Collopy shared their insights at the AILA DC Chapter Fall Conference on November 14th.
From Green to Gold to Platinum Cards
Counsel Jason Levy joined Mishkin Santa this week on The Essential Tax Podcast by The Wolf Group, PC. In this discussion, the attorneys address what it means to be a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) or Green Card holder as well as how LPR status can be lost and steps immigrants can take to retain it. They also covered the new $100K H-1B fee, and Trump’s Gold and Platinum Cards.
Toyota Symposium
Senior Attorney Hallie Cohen and Of Counsel Mary Pivec presented on compliance and workforce issues at the Toyota Symposium.
Human Rescue Alliance’s Bark Ball
GYH proudly sponsored HRA’s annual gala supporting animal welfare across the region.
Annuel Noche De Periodistas
GYH sponsored NAHJ’s annual celebration honoring Latino journalists at the Peruvian Ambassador’s Residence.
Accolades
Sandra Grossman & Becki Young Named Top Attorneys
| Bethesda Magazine recognized our Managing Partners in its November/December issue. |
GYH Ranked Tier 1 from Best Law Firm®
GYH has once again been ranked Tier 1 both nationally and regionally in the Best Law Firms® 2026 guide. This honor recognizes firms that demonstrate professional excellence and earn outstanding feedback from clients and peers alike.
Book Review: AILA’s Asylum Primer
The International Journal of Refugee Law praised Of Counsel Dree K. Collopy’s AILA’s Asylum Primer as “a monumental feat” of clarity and depth.
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