New York’s city council has approved a phased-out ban on horse-drawn carriage rides, set to take full effect in 2028, marking the end of a long-standing tradition amid ongoing debates over animal welfare and public safety concerns. The decision follows years of advocacy from animal rights groups and critics who argue the practice subjects horses to harsh conditions and poses risks to both riders and pedestrians. Supporters of the ban highlight growing public health and ethical considerations, while opponents have raised questions about the economic impact on carriage operators and the cultural significance of the rides. The measure now awaits final approval before becoming law, solidifying New York’s shift toward modernizing its urban transportation landscape.
New York's governing body voted Thursday to ban horse-drawn carriage rides in the city in 2028.
