NYC Council passes law to phase out horse-drawn carriages by 2028 - ABC7 New York
The New York City Council has passed legislation to ban horse-drawn carriages by 2028, citing animal welfare and public safety concerns. The bill, named after a fatal accident victim, faces opposition from industry workers.
Why it matters
This represents a significant shift in urban policy and animal rights legislation in a major metropolitan area.
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- The New York City Council voted Thursday to ban horse-drawn carriages, a move that will end an industry that has operated in the city since 1858.
The vote for Romanch's Law was 40 to 7 with two exemptions. The bill now heads to the mayor's desk, although it has passed with a veto-proof majority.
The legislation was first introduced in 2007. Different versions of the bill had been proposed over the years, but all failed until now.
The law will phase out the industry by June 1, 2028.
"Today, the City Council made history. Our landmark vote to pass Romanch's Law is a demonstration of this Council's commitment to animal welfare, public safety, and worker protection," City Council Speaker Julie Menin said in a statement following the vote.
Supporters of the legislation argue horse-drawn carriages no longer belong in heavily traveled areas of the city.
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