Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Lake George) expressed his dismay at Gov. Hochul’s decision to close the Great Meadow Correctional Facility. Communities like Whitehall, Granville, Fort Ann and others in Washington County have been waiting with uncertainty since the spring when it was first announced by the Governor her intentions to close up to 5 prisons.

Traditionally, it is required the state provide one-year’s notice to close down a correctional facility, a practice that has been in place to help affected employees transfer to other locations and responsibly transfer inmates. Gov. Hochul is unilaterally closing Great Meadow with only 90-days’ notice using authority granted to her as part of this year’s state budget.

The news breaks in the midst of severe summer storms and power outages with no post-closure plans for potential disruptions to local economies or the families that will be uprooted. Great Meadow Correctional Facility has been operating for over 100 years and has economically supported the surrounding communities and families for decades. More than 600 families will have to relocate as a result of today’s announcement.

“This is an unwise decision by the governor,” said Simpson. “Great Meadow Correctional Facility provides economic stability and support for families all over Washington County. This abrupt announcement and lack of any post-closure plans leaves local economies and the families dependent on this institution facing uncertainty. This decision overlooks the critical role Great Meadow plays in our region and fails to address the serious repercussions its closure will bring.”