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.