Sioux City, Iowa – A group of current and former firefighters from the 185th Air Refueling Wing has filed two lawsuits against the state of Iowa, claiming they have been underpaid for years.

The lawsuits state that the firefighters were assigned incorrect pay grades and have not received the proper overtime compensation, violating both state and federal labor laws.

Allegations of Unfair Pay

The lawsuits, filed by 32 firefighters, argue that the state of Iowa failed to pay them according to their correct rank and experience level. They claim that they have been receiving lower wages than they were entitled to, resulting in financial hardships.

In addition to the incorrect pay grades, the lawsuits allege that the state has not properly compensated them for overtime work. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Iowa Wage Payment Collection law, employees are entitled to receive overtime pay for hours worked beyond their regular schedule. However, the firefighters claim that these laws were ignored, leading to years of unpaid wages.

Firefighters Demand Justice

The firefighters are seeking a jury trial and are asking the court to order the state to immediately correct their pay grades. They are also demanding full compensation for all unpaid wages, benefits, and overtime. According to the legal documents, the financial impact on these firefighters has been significant, affecting their ability to meet personal and family expenses.

One firefighter involved in the lawsuit stated, “We have been working hard and putting our lives on the line, but the state has not been paying us what we deserve. We are only asking for what is right.”

About the 185th Air Refueling Wing

The 185th Air Refueling Wing is a unit of the Iowa Air National Guard based in Sioux City. The firefighters assigned to this wing are responsible for protecting the base, its aircraft, and its personnel. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of military operations and have been serving their community for decades.

With their primary mission being air refueling support for U.S. and allied military aircraft, the 185th Air Refueling Wing has a long history of service both in the United States and overseas. These firefighters are trained professionals who respond to emergencies on the base and support local fire departments when needed.

Legal Proceedings and State’s Response

As the lawsuits progress, all eyes are on the state’s response. So far, Iowa officials have not publicly commented on the allegations. It is expected that the state will present its defense in court, but the firefighters remain hopeful for a favorable outcome.

Legal experts say that if the court rules in favor of the firefighters, it could set a precedent for other state employees who might be facing similar pay discrepancies. “This case is about fairness and ensuring that all employees are compensated according to the law,” said an employment rights advocate following the case.

Community and Public Reaction

The lawsuit has drawn attention from the Sioux City community, with many residents expressing their support for the firefighters. People recognize their dedication and believe they should be fairly compensated. Some local organizations and unions have also voiced their concerns, stating that worker rights should always be upheld.

As the legal battle unfolds, the firefighters continue to perform their duties, hoping that justice will be served. The case highlights the importance of fair pay policies and proper enforcement of labor laws, ensuring that those who serve the community are not left behind.