The New York City Council has approved Romanch’s Law, legislation intended to phase out the horse-drawn carriage industry by June 1, 2028. The vote took place October 22 and does not mean rides stopped immediately.
The Council says the measure would end the issuance of licenses for carriage horses, cabs and drivers from that date, with existing licenses expiring May 31, 2028. The package includes a framework for worker transition.
The proposal follows the death of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan after a carriage incident this summer. The Council described its action as addressing passenger safety, animal welfare and the livelihoods of affected workers.
Sources: NYC Council. Reviewed October 26, 2026. Development: October 22, 2026.