York City Council Passes Bill Ending Horse Drawn Carriage Rides Within 2 Years

A phaseout by June 2028

The measure requires a transition plan for owners and workers in 2027 and calls for humane placement of the horses. Mamdani’s office said in a statement Thursday night that the mayor will sign the bill and that his administration is working to provide strong protections for owners and workers.

Families seek a role

Carriage owners and their families rallied outside City Hall on Wednesday and Thursday, arguing that the plan does not go far enough. One family said it had spent nearly a century building its business.

Natalie, whose relationship to the family member quoted is not specified in the report, called for fairness, compassion and a seat at the table. A man also criticized the absence of an economic impact analysis, saying the city charter requires one.

Safety and animal welfare

Schatzmann said the law would phase out the industry while supporting workers and protecting horses. A carriage opponent, however, compared the decision with continued car access to the park after nearby car accidents and said the tradition would be missed.