New York City Council has voted to ban horse-drawn carriages, a move supported by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, with the prohibition scheduled to begin in June 2028. This decision marks the end of a tradition that has been part of the city for over 160 years.
The ban's passage comes after years of campaigning by animal rights organizations and officials. The death of an 18-year-old earlier this year, who died when a carriage horse bolted and caused a fatal fall, served as the final impetus for the council's action.
The horse-drawn carriage industry has been a point of contention in New York City for some time, with debates often focusing on animal welfare and the changing urban landscape. Activists have argued for the humane treatment of the animals, citing concerns about their living conditions and the stress of working in a busy city environment. Conversely, proponents of the industry have highlighted its historical significance and its role as a tourist attraction, while also emphasizing the care provided to the horses.
The BBC's Madeline Halpert has gathered perspectives from tourists, residents, and workers within the horse carriage industry regarding the proposed ban and its implications for the city's culture and economy.