Philadelphia City Council recently voted to ban carriage horses from operating in the city, marking a significant milestone for the city. The decision comes as a response to the decreasing necessity for horse-drawn transport due to the invention of cars. The ban covers both commercial and noncommercial operators, with Mayor Cherelle Parker expected to sign it into law, effectively removing horse-drawn carriages from the streets.

This move follows similar actions in other American cities, such as Chicago and San Antonio, which have also phased out the practice of horse-drawn carriages. Calls for a ban in New York City have also been growing louder following incidents of horse collapses and accidents. In Philadelphia, an alternative e-carriage ride service is being offered by Carriage Horse Freedom as a more humane transportation experience for those who still wish to enjoy a carriage ride.