Mamdani and Menin Agree to Phase Out NYC Horse Carriages by 2028

Key points

• Mamdani and Menin agreed to support a bill banning horse-drawn carriages in New York City, effective June 2028.
• The deal includes a plan to retrain carriage drivers and transfer approximately 160 horses to sanctuaries.
• The legislation, known as Romanch’s Law, was prompted by the death of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan in a carriage accident in June 2026.
• The Transport Workers Union, which represents carriage drivers, has opposed the ban and previously threatened legal action.
• The City Council is scheduled to vote on the bill in the week following the announcement.

Background

Efforts to ban horse carriages in Central Park have persisted since 2010, previously stalling due to union opposition. Recent legislative attempts, including Ryder’s Law following the 2022 death of a horse named Ryder, failed to pass. The current push gained momentum after the fatal accident involving Romanch Mahajan in June 2026. This development follows recent tensions between Mamdani and Menin over other policy issues, including AI regulation and statements regarding the October 7 attacks.

How outlets are covering it

Politico emphasizes the political breakthrough and the potential conflict with the Transport Workers Union. The New York Daily News highlights the public safety concerns and the immediate legislative timeline, noting that the mayor’s office did not immediately comment. The Dodo focuses on the animal welfare aspects, citing data from the Animal Legal Defense Fund regarding horse injuries and the availability of over 30 sanctuaries for the horses. While all sources agree on the ban’s timeline, they differ in emphasis: Politico and the Daily News focus on the political and labor dynamics, whereas The Dodo centers on the humanitarian and animal welfare outcomes.

Why it matters

The ban resolves a long-standing controversy in New York City, balancing animal welfare concerns with the economic interests of carriage drivers. It demonstrates the city’s willingness to prioritize public safety and animal rights over traditional tourist attractions, while also highlighting the complex negotiations required to address labor impacts.

What to watch

The New York City Council is expected to vote on the ban in the coming week. If passed, the legislation will take effect in June 2028, with a workforce development program to assist affected drivers and a relocation plan for the horses.