Despite weeks of advocacy and deliberation with a group of health experts and camp directors, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced today that sleepaway camps will not be allowed to operate this summer in New York. This decision is a tremendous disappointment to children all across the state.

Over the last month, Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein has led the campaign to open day camps and sleepaway camps and has been tirelessly negotiating with the Governor’s senior staff to make it happen. While Governor Cuomo did announce two weeks ago that day camps are approved to open this summer, earlier today Governor Cuomo announced that sleepaway camps will not be able to operate this summer. A comprehensive list of strict guidelines and regulations designed by a team of medical experts was presented to the Governor. The guidelines would have ensured the health and safety of all campers and staff but despite all reassurances, the Governor has decided against opening sleepaway camps.

“I am very disappointed and frustrated by the Governor’s decision,” says Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein. “Sleepaway camp represents a unique opportunity for young people to experience a fun filled summer in a wholesome outdoor environment. After three months of lockdown, I would even venture to call it an ‘essential service.’ After experiencing both the trauma and the boredom of lockdown, young people deserve to enjoy a fun filled summer.”

Assemblyman Eichenstein continued, “We will not allow the Governor’s disastrous decision making to impact the wellbeing of our children. It is easy to hand out orders from the Governor’s Mansion, but if that is your decision, what is your solution Governor? What is your plan for the thousands of young adults who will be roaming the streets in boredom over the summer months? I refuse to accept a state of chaos and disarray over the next couple of months. I will continue to explore other options for our children so that they can enjoy the upcoming summer months, with safety as our number one priority, including sleepaway camp in other states who have already been approaching us.”