900 more H-1Bs were used last week which remains about the same pace we've seen for a while. 38,300 visas have been used of the 65,000 quota. 300 masters cap cases have been used bringing the total left down to 14,000 of 20,000. Those numbers will likely run out in January. 

The Senate voted 56 to 43 against proceeding with debate on the Defense Department budget bill. Now we must wait to see what Reid's next step will be.

[UPDATE: Senator Reid was one of the no votes so that means he can bring the bill back during this Congress which means we need three votes (to make up for Prior and Lincoln's defections and the missing Republican vote)]

It's not 100% clear exactly how votes will proceed, but the future of the DREAM Act will be determined this afternoon when the Department of Defense Appropriations bill comes up for a vote. Sources on the Hill tell me that while the votes to pass DREAM are still not lined up, discussions are under way with several Senators and that there is still a chance for passage. There's still time to call your Senator. Click here for the information you'll need to make the call.