The Central Park Conservancy has officially endorsed Ryder’s Law, a City Council bill proposing to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City, marking a significant shift from its previous neutral stance. The Conservancy cited public health and safety concerns following recent incidents involving runaway horses in Central Park, as well as damage caused by carriages to park infrastructure and cleanliness issues. The bill, named after a horse that collapsed in 2022, has gained momentum amid animal rights activism sparked by high-profile horse deaths and allegations of abuse, though necropsies revealed underlying health issues in the horses involved.
The carriage drivers, represented by the TWU 100 union, strongly oppose the ban, arguing it threatens the livelihoods of about 200 workers and accusing supporters of animosity toward their blue-collar profession. They instead call for restrictions on e-bikes and e-mopeds, which the Parks Department recently approved for year-round use in the park. The debate highlights a broader conflict between animal welfare advocates, workers’ rights, and evolving urban transportation policies in New York City.
