NYC Council Votes to End Horse-Drawn Carriages by 2028
The New York City Council has voted to phase out horse-drawn carriages by 2028 following safety concerns and a tragic accident.
NEW YORK CITY, Oct 23: The New York City Council voted to end the horse-drawn carriage industry by June 2028, with a decisive vote of 40 to 7 on Thursday. The legislation, known as Romanch’s Law, now awaits Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s signature, having passed with a veto-proof majority.
This law comes on the heels of increased safety concerns following the tragic death of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan, who was thrown from a runaway carriage in Central Park earlier this year. City Council Speaker Julie Menin highlighted that the measure aligns with the city’s commitment to animal welfare and public safety, stating, “Today, the City Council made history.”
Supporters of the ban argue that horse-drawn carriages have no place in an urban environment that attracts millions of visitors annually. They assert that the industry endangers both horses and people, with Menin emphasizing that they do not belong in crowded areas. The law is expected to provide for the humane treatment of horses, preventing their sale for slaughter and ensuring their well-being.
The legislation also mandates a transition plan for the approximately 150 active carriage drivers, which will include job placement assistance and training programs. Menin expressed hope for the transitioning workers, stating, “It’s going to support the transition for the more than 150 active horse carriage drivers.”
Despite the overwhelming support in the council, the decision has drawn fierce opposition. Critics, including Transport Workers Union Local 100, argue that the law could harm the livelihoods of workers and claim the legislation is unconstitutional. Union representative Christina Hansen described it as a “tragedy for everybody in this business.”
Legal challenges against the law are expected. City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino criticized the move, asserting it jeopardizes a licensed industry and could impact tourism, stating, “It’s a tremendous tourist attraction.”
Animal rights groups have long advocated for the ban, citing numerous incidents where horses suffered from heat exhaustion and injury. Following Mahajan’s accident, calls to end the carriage rides gained momentum, fueling the council’s decisive action. Kitty Block, president of Humane World for Animals, remarked on the importance of prioritizing animal welfare, stating, “It is a recognition that we now understand and can provide what these animals need to thrive.”
As the city prepares for this significant shift, advocates for animal rights celebrate what they describe as a long-overdue change in a 160-year-old practice.
