That is the priority date and that comes into play when comparing it to the visa bulletins for those it applies to. You don't become DQ if your priority date isn't current (which is applicable of visa holder applying for an overseas spouse. I.e. Work visa applying to bring a spouse over).
The interviews are supposed to be scheduled pretty much based on How long you've been Documentarily qualified in order unless and expedite petition is approved.
As for whether or not that's what the embassy/nvc is following or it's just whatever they feel like is another story.
If the spouse is a US citizen the priority date does not matter. Priority dates are for your spot for "available" visas for immigration that year. Visas are always available for the spouse of a US citizen.
tw8 got a reaction from top_secret in CR1 is DQ, current wait time for interview in Manila?