Central Park horse carriage ban passes New York council

New York's City Council voted Thursday to ban horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, sending the measure to Mayor Zohran Mamdani for approval.

Mamdani, who must sign the measure for it to become law, has previously supported a ban but has also raised concerns about protections for workers in the industry. If signed, the ban would take effect in June 2028.

City Council Speaker Julie Menin said the lead-in period was meant to help about 150 active carriage drivers find new employment. The Transport Workers Union representing the workers has vowed court action.

The bill includes a provision to explore possible compensation for license holders. It also says owners of nearly 200 horses would not be allowed to sell them for slaughter or for use in other horse-carriage businesses.

The vote followed years of debate. Critics say the horses suffer, citing deadly collapses and dangerous escapes, while supporters say the carriages provide jobs and preserve a city tradition.

The Central Park Conservancy, which manages the park, backed calls for a ban and said the issue had become “a matter of public health and safety.” The debate intensified after an 18-year-old tourist from India was killed in June by a horse that got loose and bolted.