New Orleans' firefighters union is suing the city over the cancellation of vacation as both sides battle concerning overtime.
In the lawsuit that was filed last week, the union contends that New Orleans officials illegally retaliated against firefighters by canceling their leave, WDSU-TV reports. City firefighters are entitled to vacation, no exceptions, according to the union's complaint.
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The union and the city have been caught in a dispute stemming from voluntary overtime hours. Firefighters have said they will no longer work voluntary overtime hours until the department is better staffed.
In response, the city canceled all vacation time and leave for firefighters, with officials saying they did so to ensure the city was properly covered during Mardi Gras celebrations. That led to nearly 50 firefighters calling in sick this past weekend.
A hearing on the union's lawsuit is set for Thursday, according to WDSU.
