TO 2001Case, imnao
I think you should apply for EAD, take no chance from BCIS. Besides, since your ND is close to official processing time for 485 from BCIS, you may pursue to ask your congressman to push BCIS.
For me, the ND is September, I ask my congressman, but he said I have to wait until processing time pass my ND.
BTW, I am trying to find any approving pattern for RFE, 2001Case and imnao, do any of you use AC21 to change your employer? I doubt it may prolong the approving time for RFE?
Thanks,