The decision drew protest at the board’s morning meeting.

Opponents say shutting down the hospital will leave some 2,000 people out of work.

However, SUNY Downstate – which runs the facility – says the hospital has a $40 million budget shortfall and would have run out of money by next month.

A recent report from the state comptroller found the hospital has lost money for 17 straight years.

The hospital now must submit a closure plan to the state Health Department.

(Source: NY1)