ASPCA Commends NYC Council for Passing Historic Bill to Phase Out Horse-Drawn Carriages By 2028

If signed into law, Romanch's Law will provide a responsible path forward for both horses and the workers who depend on the industry

NEW YORK, Oct. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) commended the NYC Council for passing Romanch's Law (Intro. 943), formerly known as Ryder's Law, to responsibly phase out horse-drawn carriage operations in New York City. If signed by Mayor Mamdani, Romanch's Law would take effect on June 1, 2028, creating a two-year transition period to ensure the humane retirement and placement of carriage horses, while also establishing a workforce transition program for carriage drivers and horse-stable workers.

"The risks associated with carriage horses are inherent: forcing horses to pull carriages through New York City's busy, loud streets is unsafe and places an undeniable strain on their quality of life," said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA President and CEO. "After decades of debate, repeated accidents, incremental reforms, and renewed public concern following the tragic death of Romanch Mahajan, the New York City Council has moved beyond temporary fixes and passed Romanch's Law—a lasting solution that protects horses, supports workers, and reflects the values of a modern city."

Animal welfare organizations have long-raised concerns regarding carriage horses, and support for responsibly phasing out horse-drawn carriages has grown following several high-profile incidents in recent years. Stakeholders who have historically approached the issue from different perspectives, including the Central Park Conservancy, elected officials, public safety advocates, and members of the public, have increasingly expressed concerns regarding the continued operation of horse-drawn carriage services.

"We are grateful to Council Member Marte and Speaker Menin for their leadership in passing this historic legislation, and we urge Mayor Mamdani to sign Intro. 943 into law, phasing out horse-drawn carriages while providing a responsible path forward for both the horses and the workers who depend on the industry," said Bershadker.

The ASPCA has worked to protect horses since its founding in 1866. In fact, the organization was established to improve the lives of working horses on the streets of New York City, and for 160 years, the ASPCA has advocated for stronger standards of care, humane treatment, and policies that advance equine welfare. If Intro. 943 is signed into law, the ASPCA is prepared to assist the City with any potential transition needs by tapping into its network of rescue partners and providing grant funding or resources, if necessary, to help facilitate humane placement options for any horse in need of a home.

If Romanch's Law is enacted, New York would join many cities in the U.S. and around the world including London, Paris, Beijing, Toronto, Barcelona, Montreal, Beijing, Chicago and Philadelphia that have already ended or prohibited traditional horse-drawn carriage operations in busy urban centers, recognizing that modern transportation, public safety and animal welfare standards have evolved.

For more information about the ASPCA's work to support vulnerable animals in New York City and across the country, or to join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade, please visit www.aspca.org.

About the ASPCA^®
The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) believes every animal deserves to live free from suffering. For 160 years, we've been on the frontlines to save, transform and protect millions of lives in the fight against animal cruelty. As the nation's first and leading animal welfare organization, we assist animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal relocation and placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary communities through research, training and resources. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than 2 million supporters nationwide, our commitment to eliminating animal cruelty is unwavering. For more information, visit aspca.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

SOURCE ASPCA