NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 13, 2026Miami-Dade
Federal government awards $244 million migrant child advocacy contract after firm declines $150 million offer
A law firm with ties to the Trump administration declined a $150 million federal contract to represent unaccompanied migrant children. Consequently, a different organization, whose former CEO faced misconduct allegations, was awarded a contract worth up to $244 million to provide advocacy services for these children.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The federal government is shifting $244 million in taxpayer funds to a new contractor for the legal advocacy of following the rejection of a smaller contract by a firm with political ties.
Key Facts
- A law firm with ties to the Trump administration declined a $150 million federal contract.
- The contract was intended to provide representation for unaccompanied migrant children.
- A different organization was awarded a contract worth up to $244 million for the same purpose.
- The organization awarded the $244 million contract had a former chief executive who faced allegations of misconduct.
- The announcement of these contract changes occurred on Wednesday.
Who's Mentioned
organizationOffice of Refugee Resettlement“Federal agency overseeing the contracts.”locationMcAllen, Texas“The location where the report originated.”organizationTrump administration“The administration to which the law firm has ties.”organizationBurke Law Group“Law firm that declined the federal contract.”organizationAcacia Center for Justice“Organization that held the previous expired contract.”personJustin Shubow“Member of Burke Law Group roster.”organizationU.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants“Group awarded a temporary $20 million contract.”personMarcella Burke“Founder of Burke Law Group and former Trump administration official.”personIlya Shapiro“Senior counsel at Burke Law Group.”personDonald Trump“Former President of the United States.”