NYC Votes to End Horse-Drawn Carriages After 168 Years in Historic Animal Welfare Victory
Ending New York City's horse-drawn carriage industry
NEW YORK CITY — October 24, 2026
After 168 years, New York City is preparing to bring one of its oldest and most controversial tourist traditions to an end.
On October 22, 2026, the New York City Council voted 40–7 to approve Romanch’s Law, legislation designed to phase out horse-drawn carriage operations by June 1, 2028.
The measure passed with a veto-proof majority, marking a historic victory for animal welfare advocates.
A 168-Year Tradition Finally Challenged
Horse-drawn carriages have been part of New York City since 1858. For generations, tourists have considered carriage rides a romantic part of the Central Park experience.
But there is another side to that tradition: horses navigating crowded streets, traffic, noise, and weather conditions for human entertainment.
Tradition alone cannot justify the continued exploitation of animals.
Why New York City Voted to End Carriage Operations
The legislation follows years of campaigning by animal welfare advocates and renewed concerns about carriage safety. Named in memory of Romanch Mahajan, a young tourist who died following a carriage incident in 2026, the bill reflects concerns for both human and animal safety.
The 40–7 vote gave the legislation enough support to override a mayoral veto. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has also expressed support for the measure.
What Happens to the Carriage Horses?
Ending carriage operations is only the beginning. The legislation includes restrictions intended to prevent horses from being transferred into slaughter or another carriage business.
Animal advocates must continue watching how the retirement provisions are implemented. Every horse deserves a safe, humane future.
A horse freed from carriage work should not simply be moved into another exploitative situation.
Compassion for Horses and Workers
The transition will also affect drivers, stable employees, and families whose livelihoods depend on carriage operations. A humane solution should support these workers while protecting the animals.
Defend Animals: Their Freedom Is the Real Victory
For 168 years, horses have pulled carriages through New York City for human entertainment. The Council’s vote represents an extraordinary step toward ending that practice.
The victory belongs to the advocates who never stopped fighting, and most importantly, to the horses whose welfare must come first.
The greatest tribute to these animals will not be another carriage ride. It will be the opportunity to live the rest of their lives without pulling one.
DefendAnimals.net — Defending Animals Online
