Mayor Adams calls for end to NYC horse-drawn carriage industry; City Council says for political gain | amNewYork

"The measure would phase out the horse-drawn carriage industry by halting the issuance of new licenses and banning carriage operations entirely starting June 1, 2026. It also requires that retired horses be placed in humane settings, barring their sale for slaughter or to other carriage businesses. In addition, the bill directs the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection to create a workforce development program to help drivers and other employees transition into new jobs."

"While horse-drawn carriages have long been an iconic fixture of Central Park, they are increasingly incompatible with the conditions of a modern, heavily-used urban green space, Adams said in a statement. It's not about eliminating this tradition, Adams said. It's about honoring our traditions in a way that aligns with who we are today. Adams emphasized that his administration will work with drivers as the city transitions away from horse carriages."

Mayor Eric Adams endorsed legislation to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City and signed Executive Order 56 directing agencies to prepare for the industry's end. The proposed Ryder's Law would phase out the industry by stopping new licenses and banning carriage operations starting June 1, 2026. The measure requires retired horses be placed in humane settings and bars their sale for slaughter or transfer to other carriage businesses. The bill mandates a Department of Consumer and Worker Protection workforce development program to help drivers and employees transition to new jobs. The executive order calls for increased oversight, a voluntary license return process, and identification of alternative employment opportunities.

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