New York City Horse Carriage Industry Faces Uncertain Future

A longstanding tradition in New York City is at a crossroads as horse carriage drivers voice concerns about potential outcomes if Mayor Zohran Mamdani follows through with plans to end this iconic industry. Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin recently announced they had reached a deal to phase out horse-drawn carriages by June 2028. A vote on a bill expected next week could finalize this decision.

Horse-drawn carriages, known for offering rides in Central Park to tourists and families, have been part of a public safety discussion after an 18-year-old named Romanch Mahajan died from a fall in June. This prompted a renaming of the bill to “Romanch’s Law.” Animal rights activists have scrutinized the industry, alleging mistreatment of horses and sharing videos of incidents involving horses in traffic. These events have fueled calls for the complete shutdown of the business.

While activists push for change, industry leaders counter these claims. They assert that the tradition is being unfairly targeted and express concern over lost livelihoods. Frank Riccobono, owner of NYC Horse Carriage Rides, emphasizes the heritage, mentioning that pedicabs are allowed to operate without similar scrutiny. With 12 horses and three carriages, Riccobono stresses the connection formed with these animals, describing the relationship as akin to raising children.

Under the proposed bill, horse owners could keep or sell their horses with restrictions against selling them for slaughter or to other carriage businesses. However, Riccobono worries about the financial impact. He purchased a license for nearly $400,000, allowing him to operate legally. This investment now stands at risk without compensation in the legislation.

Julie Menin and Zohran Mamdani plan to aid around 200 carriage drivers in finding new employment. As the city prepares for the horses’ transition to rescues or sanctuaries, concerns persist regarding the capability of these facilities due to existing resource constraints.

Christina Hansen, a carriage driver and Transport Workers Union representative, remarks on the lack of communication with Mamdani. She notes that drivers have felt disregarded in the discussions, highlighting the importance of their livelihoods.

In the past, efforts to ban horse-drawn carriages, such as those by former mayor Bill de Blasio, were unsuccessful. These initiatives included proposals for electric alternatives, which ultimately did not proceed. Hansen urges Mamdani to engage with drivers directly to gain insight into their perspective.

Despite the uncertain future, Riccobono vows to challenge the perceived injustices of the bill, standing firm in support of the industry and its heritage.