My H1b change of employer petition was filed in September 2018 after there was a layoff with the previous employer. I had to travel outside the US for a family emergency after I got a new job within the 60 day period.
So, the new employer has filed my H1b with consular processing. When can I expect any answers from USCIS?
Apply B1/B2 visa while H1B application is pending with USCIS
Can I apply for a B2 visa and visit my friends and family in the US for 2 months and then come back and get my visa stamping done?
As I understand, you never started working for your new employer while you were in US. Right?
Do you have a valid H1B stamp from previous employer?
Do NOT apply B1/B2 while H1B is pending with USCIS
Also, I strongly recommend to NOT apply B1/B2 (legally, you can apply though) as it has very high chances of rejection.
B1/B2 is only for temporary visit and NO work. Since, your H1B (work auth) is pending, you are creating a conflict with your intentions and the visa officer will count it as negative for your B1/B2 application.
I am almost certain that your B1/B2 will be rejected.