(Vosizneias and combined sources) This week, a federal judge ruled against the Association of Jewish Camp Operators (AJCO) and upheld New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s decision to close New York sleepaway camps this summer.

On June 12, Cuomo announced his decision to shut down all sleepaway camps this summer due to COVID-19. Jewish community leaders were quick to criticize the decision, citing the importance of summer camps for the childrens’ wellbeing. Others pointed out the lack of clarity regarding the difference in risk between day camps, which the state is allowing, and sleepaway camps.

The AJCO eventually brought a federal lawsuit to challenge Cuomo’s decision, and followed up by filing for a temporary restraining order on the governor’s actions. By banning overnight camps while allowing day camps, the suit argued, Cuomo was putting some activities above others in a possible violation of the First Amendment.

This week the judge ruled in favor of the governor’s position.