New York City Mayor Eric Adams has signed an executive order to prepare for a ban on horse-drawn carriages, proposing their replacement with electric alternatives. He urged the NYC Council to pass “Ryder’s Law,” which would phase out the carriage industry while ensuring humane relocation of horses and workforce support for drivers. The move follows several incidents involving horse injuries and safety concerns for both animals and the public, including the death of a horse named Ryder, after whom the law is named. Public support for the ban is strong, with 71% of New Yorkers favoring it.

The mayor emphasized that the ban respects tradition while aligning with modern values of animal welfare and fairness. The executive order also directs the NYPD to enforce traffic regulations related to carriages and aims to end the industry by spring 2026. While some city officials support the legislation, others criticize Adams for politicizing the issue amid his struggling mayoral reelection campaign. The debate continues as the City Council deliberates the bill, reflecting broader concerns about animal rights and urban safety.