10/23/26 - NYC Council Votes to End Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

New York City has taken a major step toward ending horse-drawn carriage rides. On October 22, the City Council passed Romanch’s Law, which would phase out the industry by June 1, 2028. The bill includes protections against sending retired horses to slaughter or other inhumane uses, assistance with humane placement, and a workforce transition program. As of October 23, it awaits Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s signature; his office has said he will sign it.

This milestone follows years of determined advocacy, and we are especially pleased to recognize Julie Cappiello, a longtime CWI board member and adviser who serves as president of Voters For Animal Rights. In the Council’s announcement, Julie described working on the issue for nearly 15 years and credited the advocates and elected officials who built support. “Romanch’s Law is proof that when New Yorkers make animals a political priority, City Hall listens,” she said.

CWI congratulates Julie, Voters For Animal Rights, NYCLASS, and the many people and organizations who helped bring this effort to a successful Council vote. We believe animals should not have to work for our entertainment, and ending their exploitation requires both persistence and practical plans for their future. We look forward to the bill becoming law and to a transition that protects the horses and supports affected workers.

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