Where there's smoke...: Here's why over a 100 fire captains are suing the city of Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona: Over a 100 fire captains from the Phoenix Fire Department have filed a notice of claim against the City of Phoenix, alleging years of pay discrepancies. The captains, led by Captain Scott Porter, are seeking over $32 million in back pay, damages, and attorney fees.

According to a report in Arizona's Family, Captain Porter, who served the department for two decades, discovered that despite his specialized training in aircraft rescue and firefighting, he was earning less than the firefighters he supervised. Porter explained that he found this out by accident and soon realized that several of his colleagues were also being underpaid for years.

"I lost money for having additional training," Porter told Arizona's Family. He expected a quick resolution when he first brought up the issue but has since faced ongoing challenges in correcting the matter.

The captains' legal action stems from claims that their specialized certifications entitle them to higher pay according to city agreements and codes. Despite this, many found themselves making less than colleagues with lower ranks and fewer qualifications. Porter's frustration was shared by many paramedic captains who, despite providing life-saving interventions, were compensated less than those without specialized training.

The lawsuit comes after months of attempting to resolve the issue internally with no success. Porter and his fellow captains are now pursuing legal action. According to Porter, while his current pay in 2024 has been adjusted, dozens of other captains are still owed back pay, some dating back four years.