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NYC Council passes law to phase out horse-drawn carriages by 2028
ABC7 New York • • nation
Key Points:
- The New York City Council voted 40 to 7 to pass Romanch's Law, banning horse-drawn carriages and ending an industry operating since 1858, with the phase-out set for June 1, 2028.
- The legislation, named after Romanch Mahajan who died in a carriage accident in 2023, aims to improve animal welfare, public safety, and worker protection in heavily trafficked areas like Central Park.
- Supporters claim 80% of New Yorkers favor ending the carriage trade, while opponents argue the ban is unconstitutional and harms licensed carriage owners, drivers, and horses.
- The city plans to develop a transition plan over the next two years to help affected drivers find new employment opportunities.
- The bill now awaits the mayor’s approval but passed with a veto-proof majority, making its enactment highly likely.
