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New York City blocks Central Park horse carriage ban after heated debate

A dying horse reignited the fight over Central Park’s iconic carriages. Now, activists vow to keep pushing—while workers celebrate a hard-won victory.

There are three horses. These are three kids sitting on the chairs. One person is running and the...
There are three horses. These are three kids sitting on the chairs. One person is running and the person is standing. This is the grass. This is a barre gate. At background I can see trees and houses. Here I can see a small flower pot. These are the flags hanging to the pole.

New York City blocks Central Park horse carriage ban after heated debate

A proposal to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City's Central Park failed to proceed, with the Committee on Health voting against sending it to the full council. The move sparked criticism from animal rights advocates and support from the Transport Workers Union.

The debate over horse-drawn carriages in Central Park was reignited following the collapse and death of a carriage horse near its stables. Critics argue that the horses can easily get spooked on city streets, leading to accidents and injuries. Despite this, the council's Democratic leadership resisted calls to hold a public hearing and vote on the proposal.

Animal rights advocates vowed to continue their fight to end the industry, condemning the vote as a 'sham'. New York City Mayor Eric Adams threw his support behind the proposed ban and issued an executive order to step up enforcement. The Central Park Conservancy also supports an industry ban due to its impact on public safety and road infrastructure.

The failed vote means the proposal to ban horse-drawn carriages in Central Park will not proceed to the full council for now. Animal rights advocates remain committed to ending the industry, while the Transport Workers Union of America, representing horse carriage workers, praised the panel's decision.

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