You can try to get a TN visa even if you have another application pending.

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I don't see why you could not be admitted to the U.S. to resume your current H1b employment with your unexpired, multiple entry H1b visa.

What is your question? Whether this is unusual? No, it's quite common.

Follow up with customer service. CIS will destroy the card unless you aggressively follow up with them.

There is no provision of law for an F2 to get an EAD based on being an F2.

There is no violation of any immigration law for the employer to pay you above the minimum wages.

You would need to file a new H1b visa petition. You do not have to wait for the other one to be approved.

True. CIS is taking a long time on these. Try doing a customer service request.

Each case is decided individually and at the very broad discretion of the consular officer.

Yes. The expungment will not remove your conviction for immigration purposes so be sure to get many certified copies of the records.