NYC Horse-Drawn Carriages to Be Banned Under New Deal
Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin agree to end the century-old practice, citing safety concerns and animal welfare.
New York City is set to ban horse-drawn carriages from its streets under a deal brokered between Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin. The proposed legislation, which has the backing of both officials, would make operating the horse-drawn carriages illegal in the five boroughs beginning in June 2028.
Menin stated that while horse-drawn carriages have been a historical part of New York City, their operation in an increasingly busy Central Park has become a significant public safety liability. "Next week, the Council will take decisive action by voting on [this bill] to protect New Yorkers, visitors, and the horses themselves," she told Politico.
The move comes after a period of increased scrutiny on the industry, particularly following a tragic accident in July 2026. An 18-year-old tourist, Romanch Mahajan, was killed when a horse pulling his carriage became spooked and bolted, causing the carriage to overturn. This incident, along with ongoing concerns about the working conditions for the horses, has fueled efforts to ban the practice.
Advocates for a ban have long cited the strenuous conditions faced by the horses, including long work hours and exposure to extreme weather. The industry has been a tradition in Central Park for centuries, but critics argue it is no longer compatible with the city's modern needs and safety standards. A city-hired veterinarian had previously uncovered numerous abnormalities and concerns within the Central Park stables, further intensifying calls for reform.