Read the language carefully (especially pertinent in government Policy Memoranda) it says, "Place a hold on pending benefit requests". A benefit request is not "pending" until it has been accepted and a receipt notice issued. By this language, if they follow the memorandum, they should accept and receipt the I-751 (which includes the automatic 48-month extension). The adjudication of the benefit is then placed on hold. If it's not cleared up by May, file the I-751 as your window opens.