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Cleveland firefighters now have to bring a note from the doctor after they go home sick if they want to be paid for that time off.

The Plain Dealer reports the fire department is demanding physicians' excuses or other documentation following a recent doubling in the time lost to mid-shift illnesses. The department's books have been under city scrutiny for possible payroll abuses. 

"We're going to tighten up some of the restrictions on this benefit," Assistant Fire Chief Timothy O'Toole said Thursday to the newspaper. "We felt this was a prudent managerial move."

The firefighters' union has filed a grievance. The Cleveland Fire Fighters Association complains that its members are being punished for using sick time provided for in their contract.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

How closely should firefighters' sick time be scrutinized? Is this step reasonable, insulting or both? Sound off below and on our WNWO Facebook page.