Majority of New Yorkers Across Every Major Demographic Support a Ban on Horse-Drawn Carriages, New Poll Shows
Update (October 23, 2025): New York City has spoken—and they want horse-drawn carriages to ‘get outta here’! The most comprehensive survey ever conducted on New York City’s horse-carriage industry just revealed that a staggering 78% of registered New York City voters across every borough, political party, and age group support Ryder’s Law—the life-saving bill that would phase out cruel horse-drawn carriages, rehome the horses, and provide job-transition programs for drivers.
The poll shows a rare citywide consensus—and it comes after all leading mayoral candidates voiced their support for a ban on horse-drawn carriages. From Manhattan to Staten Island, and from young voters to seniors, compassionate New Yorkers are united in their call for Speaker Adrienne Adams and the City Council to hold a hearing and move Ryder’s Law forward. There’s no excuse for delay—it’s time to stop horses from suffering and dying on NYC’s congested streets.
Originally Published September 17, 2025
Incredible news for horses in New York City! The end may be in sight for Central Park’s horse-drawn carriages, as Mayor Eric Adams has signed an executive order cracking down on the industry—a huge trot in the right direction toward phasing out this cruel, dangerous, and even deadly practice.
This compassionate move comes on the heels of the death of Lady, who collapsed and died on the streets of Manhattan just last month. PETA has ramped up protests, with dozens of our animal defenders holding signs demanding that the City Council pass Ryder’s Law—which Mayor Adams is now calling for as well. The law is named after a horse named Ryder who broke down on the street in 2022 and later died and it would ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City. We also erected a sky-high billboard and enlisted native New Yorker and Sopranos star Edie Falco to write a letter urging City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams to stop blocking Ryder’s Law.
What Will Mayor Adams’ Executive Order Do for Horses?
While a complete horse-drawn carriage ban is still crucial, Mayor Adams’ executive order takes immediate steps to protect horses and strengthen oversight in the meantime. The order directs city agencies—including the New York Police Department (NYPD), Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, Parks, and the Health Department—to crack down on violations and enforce existing regulations.
Under the order, the NYPD must prioritize stopping horse-drawn carriages that illegally solicit fares or drive in traffic and bike lanes. The order also directs city agencies to identify “new employment opportunities” for those currently working in the industry, signaling a move toward phasing out horse-drawn carriages.
“New Yorkers care deeply about animals, about fairness, and about doing what’s right.” Adams said.
Why New York City’s Officials Must Pass Ryder’s Law
Horses are naturally playful, curious, and social animals, thriving when they can run freely alongside their herd. But in New York City’s horse-drawn carriage industry, their lives consist of exploitation, abuse, and exhaustion. Carriage operators force them to toil for hours in scorching heat or freezing cold, dodge traffic, and pound the harsh pavement all day long. Crowded streets, blaring horns, and wailing sirens terrify these easily-startled animals, while exhaust fumes damage their lungs. Many develop painful leg and joint injuries from hauling heavy loads on hard surfaces.
What happened to Lady and Ryder wasn’t an accident—humans worked them to death. We need to end this deadly industry, and YOU can help us do it.
All Horses Exploited for Carriage Rides Need YOUR Help—Take Action Now!
Horses are living, feeling individuals—not a ride service. Never take carriage rides pulled by horses, and explain to your family and friends why they shouldn’t, either.
Note: PETA supports animal rights, opposes all forms of animal exploitation, and educates the public on those issues. PETA does not directly or indirectly participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office or any political party.
