New York City has taken a major step toward phasing out horse-drawn carriages, with the City Council approving legislation that will prohibit their operation in the city starting next year. The move follows years of debate over animal welfare concerns, including the treatment of horses and their working conditions. Supporters argue the ban is necessary to protect the animals from overwork and harsh urban environments, while opponents have raised questions about the livelihoods of carriage drivers. The decision marks a shift in how the city regulates traditional but increasingly controversial forms of transportation.
The New York City Council on Thursday passed a bill that bans horse-drawn carriages from operating in the city after June 2028.