Mayor Adams has called for a ban on horse-drawn carriage rides in New York City, aligning with the animal rights group NYCLASS, which has spent millions over the past decade lobbying for this cause. NYCLASS supports Ryder’s Law, a proposed bill that would prohibit horse carriages, replace them with electric alternatives, relocate horses to rescue farms, and provide job-transition programs for drivers. A recent poll commissioned by NYCLASS claims that 78% of New Yorkers back the ban, though the bill faces opposition in the City Council from the union-backed carriage industry.

The Transport Workers Union, led by John Samuelsen, strongly opposes the ban, accusing NYCLASS of misrepresenting carriage drivers and prioritizing real estate interests over workers and horses. NYCLASS counters by highlighting its animal rescue efforts and accusing the union of protecting wealthy carriage owners who exploit both drivers and horses. The debate reflects a broader conflict between animal welfare advocates seeking to end what they view as an outdated and cruel industry, and unions defending the livelihoods of carriage drivers.