NYC Mayor Eric Adams has signed an executive order to prepare for a ban on horse-drawn carriages, with potential replacement by electric alternatives. Adams is also pushing for the passage of “Ryder’s Law” to phase out horse-drawn carriages in the city, ensuring humane relocation of the industry’s horses and providing workforce development for drivers. The decision comes after incidents raising concerns about the safety of park users, carriage drivers, and the horses themselves.

The Mayor’s office highlighted recent incidents, including the collapse and death of a carriage horse named Lady, as well as instances of runaway carriage horses causing injuries. The industry is expected to be phased out by spring 2026. While the City Council was already considering legislation, Adams’s executive order will expedite the process. However, criticism has surfaced regarding the timing of the decision, with some considering it opportunistic in the context of the upcoming mayoral election.