CARIBOU, Maine (AP) The operator of veterans homes in Maine said Friday its plans to close two facilities in the northern part of the state remain unchanged, but it’s willing to work with the state on a solution.

Maine Veterans’ Homes announced that its facilities in Machias and Caribou are expected to close in the spring. The Maine Legislature is considering a bill that would require the organization’s board to seek legislative approval to close long-term care facilities.

Maine Veterans’ Homes said in a Friday statement that it is “eager to have substantive discussions to realize permanent solutions as we continue to wait for notification from the state concerning our closure plans.” Christine Henson, a spokesperson for the organization, said the closure plans are still on track.

Public officials and veterans organizations in the state have opposed the closure of the two facilities. Maine Veterans’ Homes has said it’s necessary because of economics and the need to maintain quality of care in the systems.