New York City Council Bans Horse-Drawn Carriages by 2028

The New York City Council made a significant move on Thursday, voting to prohibit horse-drawn carriages by June 2028. This decision puts an end to a nearly 170-year tradition in the city, which was partly prompted by the tragic death of a teenager in Central Park. Carriage drivers are already threatening legal action in response.

The council’s vote passed with a tally of 40-7, alongside two abstentions. This new legislation, aptly named Romanch’s Law after 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan, who died in June due to an accident involving a runaway carriage, will gradually eliminate the industry by June 1, 2028. Furthermore, it mandates the administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani to create a transition program for the over 150 drivers and workers affected.

The proposed plan aims to offer job training, career counseling, and employment referrals, though there’s no guarantee of financial compensation.

President Donald Trump also expressed his discontent with the council’s decision, labeling the horse-drawn carriages as a quintessential New York experience. He lamented the loss, attributing it to political reasons.

The Transport Workers Union (TWU), representing those in the carriage industry, has threatened to take the matter to federal court and is seeking a temporary restraining order. Union representatives have criticized City Council Speaker Julie Menin for not adequately consulting the drivers, whose livelihoods are on the line.

Opponents of the legislation have voiced concerns about the lack of a solid financial plan for drivers and carriage owners. A proposal to delay the phaseout until January 2030 was raised but ultimately fell short of the necessary support.

Menin defended the council’s decision, asserting that they had fortified protections for workers and are prepared for any legal challenges. She emphasized their confidence in the legislation, as they had dedicated time over the summer to refine it.

Animal rights organization PETA praised the vote and pledged $50,000 to assist in retiring the carriage horses as the industry winds down. The Central Park Conservancy also welcomed the decision, highlighting the safety risks posed by horse-drawn carriages to the millions of visitors that frequent the park each year.

The Conservancy commented on the dangers posed by carriages in modern times, expressing condolences for Mahajan’s family and noting that his death marked the ninth carriage-related incident in just over a year. The legislation also includes safeguards to prevent retired carriage horses from being sold for slaughter while allowing their owners to keep them.

The bill now awaits Mayor Mamdani’s signature. He has shown support for abolishing the industry, which would finally resolve a longstanding political debate surrounding one of New York City’s most notorious tourist attractions.