New York carriage ban divides residents and threatens drivers’ livelihoods
New York City is moving to ban horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, citing concerns about animal welfare and public safety. Many residents and animal activists welcome the proposal, while drivers fear losing their livelihoods and say they care deeply for their horses.
The ban, known as Romanch’s Law, is expected to be voted on by the city council and would take effect in June 2028. About 200 drivers work in the industry, a tradition dating back more than 160 years; city records cited in the article say 40 working horses have died since 1982, and the park’s conservancy reported seven horse-related incidents in the past 13 months.
In short
- New York plans to end Central Park carriage rides in 2028.
- Drivers fear for their jobs and their horses’ futures.
- Supporters cite animal welfare and safety concerns.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by BBC World as “Some New Yorkers hail ban on horse-drawn carriages, but drivers fear for incomes”.