Zohran mamdani nyc horse carriage ban

On 14 October 2026, New York City Council Member Zohran Mamdani intensified his advocacy for the complete phase-out of horse-drawn carriages in Manhattan. Mamdani, who has long been a vocal critic of the industry, introduced a new legislative framework aimed at transitioning the city’s tourism sector toward electric-powered vintage-style vehicles. During a press conference held outside City Hall, he argued that the current practice is outdated and poses unnecessary risks to both the animals and public safety in congested traffic. Mamdani’s proposal includes a comprehensive job transition program for current carriage drivers, ensuring they receive training and financial support to operate the proposed electric alternatives. The initiative has garnered support from various animal welfare organizations, which cite recent incidents of carriage horses collapsing in extreme weather as evidence that the industry is no longer sustainable. While the carriage industry continues to oppose the measure, citing historical significance and economic hardship, Mamdani maintains that modernizing the city’s tourism infrastructure is a moral and practical necessity for New York City’s future.