New York City Expected To Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages From 2028

New York City is expected to ban horse-drawn carriages from June 2028, supported by Speaker Julie Menin, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and the Central Park Conservancy. The proposed legislation, known as Romanch’s Law, aims to address public safety concerns and require humane rehoming of industry horses. The ban is likely to pass with a veto-proof City Council majority following a vote on October 22.

This move comes after a groundswell of support for the ban, sparked by the death of Romanch Mahajan, an 18-year-old tourist who fell from a carriage in Central Park. Several high-profile horse deaths in NYC, including Deniz, Lady, and Ryder, have also fueled calls for ending the horse-drawn carriage industry. Mayor Mamdani stated that his administration will ensure protection for workers and owners, as well as the safety of the horses impacted by the ban.