H4 to H1 Transfer, H4 expired, Urgent!!!

[googly2007]

Hi,

At present I am on H4 but my H4 expired in December2006. But I have I-94 valid till 2009. My husband also got extension till April2009. Now I want to apply for fresh H1 in April2007. I want to know whether this will affect my H1 approval? Do I need to have stamped H4 which is valid till 2009 before filing fresh H1?
I need this as soon as possible.

Thank in advance.