Mayor Eric Adams has called on the New York City Council to end the use of horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, urging them to pass Ryder’s Law, which would replace horse carriages with electric alternatives. To support this transition, Adams signed an executive order increasing enforcement of the current industry regulations, establishing a voluntary license return process, and creating new job opportunities for those affected. He also sent a “letter of necessity” to expedite the legislation by bypassing the usual aging period, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reform that respects tradition while prioritizing safety for both people and animals.

The push to end horse-drawn carriages follows several incidents involving carriage horses collapsing and dying, including Ryder, a horse who gained national attention in 2022. Animal rights groups like NYCLASS praised Adams’ move as a critical step to protect both horses and humans from the dangers of the industry. While the mayor’s decision received support from figures like Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, it faced criticism from union leaders representing carriage workers, highlighting ongoing tensions around the future of this longstanding New York tradition.