Can my employer file a I-140 after I quit or he terminates me?

Question details

I am currently employed on a H1B visa ( 7th yr extension). My employer had applied for Labor back in Jan 2009 but it hasn’t yet been approved. my employer now intends to terminate my employment by the end of the year ( lay offs/ I could quit voluntarily ) Can they still file for a I-140 ( based on a future job offer)? I would like to maintain my priority date. Also can a prospective employer file for a H1B extension based on a pending/approved labor after I no longer work for the current firm?

ANSWER

Both things are possible as long as the I-140 is filed in good faith. I have doubts about the I-140 approval if the job ceases to exist even temporarily.

Green Card