Bill named for tourist would phase out carriage trade by June 2028
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin is backing legislation that would ban horse-drawn carriages from Central Park, supporting a proposal that gained momentum following the death of an 18-year-old tourist in a June accident.
The bill would phase out the city’s carriage horse trade by June 2028, according to The Guardian. The measure, named for the victim, has renewed a years-long debate over the fate of the industry.
Councilmember Christopher Marte, who represents Lower Manhattan, sponsored the legislation. The mayor has expressed conditional support for the proposal, The Guardian reported, saying he supports the “spirit” of the legislation while voicing concern about carriage workers who could lose their livelihoods.
Supporters of the ban argue the horses are subjected to conditions they describe as inhumane. Opponents say the bill would destroy an industry that has been part of the park’s character for generations. Backers of the legislation have promised a workforce development program to help displaced carriage workers find new jobs.
The issue has simmered in the city for years. The June fatality shifted the political calculus, bringing the council speaker behind the measure.