NYC bill to ban horse carriages renamed 'Romanch's Law' after Indian teen's death

A significant legislative effort in New York City to ban horse-drawn carriages has been renamed 'Romanch's Law' in honor of Romanch Mahajan, an 18-year-old Indian tourist who tragically died in a carriage accident in Central Park. The bill, spearheaded by New York City Council Member Christopher Marte, aims to phase out the horse-drawn carriage industry by June 1, 2028, prohibiting the issuance of new licenses and ceasing all operations by that date. The legislation also includes provisions for a workforce development program to assist drivers and other workers in transitioning to new fields of employment. The renaming of the bill follows a fatal incident on June 17, 2026, where Romanch Mahajan fell from a horse-drawn carriage. According to reports, the horse bolted while the driver was stopped to take a family photograph. Mahajan's mother fell from the carriage, and he jumped off in an attempt to help her, sustaining fatal injuries upon impact with the ground. His family has expressed profound grief and has urged authorities to halt horse carriage operations immediately, emphasizing that the city should prioritize human life over tourism. 'Romanch's Law' (Intro 943) has garnered considerable momentum and support. A recent hearing before the City Council Health Committee saw strong backing from animal welfare organizations, advocates, and members of Mahajan's family. City Council Speaker Julie Menin has publicly supported the bill, calling Mahajan's death a turning point and expressing commitment to ensuring job opportunities for carriage workers. The bill has secured a majority of City Council co-sponsors, moving it closer to a full Council vote. The horse-drawn carriage industry in New York City has been a subject of debate for decades, with concerns raised about animal welfare and public safety. The bill's proponents highlight numerous past incidents involving horses and carriages, including the collapse and death of a horse named Ryder in August 2022, after which the bill was initially known as 'Ryder's Law.' Animal Legal Defense Fund records indicate a history of accidents, injuries, and inhumane treatment within the industry, citing instances of horses being overworked in extreme weather and confined to inadequate stalls. The current regulations, which allow horses to be worked for up to nine hours a day, seven days a week, are considered insufficient by animal welfare groups. Opponents, represented by the Transport Workers Union Local 100, argue that the bill unfairly penalizes the entire industry due to a single tragedy and that drivers have chosen livelihoods they value. They are seeking assurances for job protections and express concerns about the proposed workforce development programs. Romanch Mahajan's death is believed to be the first human fatality in the industry's approximately 150-year history. The Consulate General of India in New York expressed deep sadness over his demise, extending condolences to his family. This legislative push signifies a critical juncture for the future of horse-drawn carriages in New York City, with 'Romanch's Law' representing a significant step towards a potential ban. The bill's progression reflects a growing societal concern for animal welfare and public safety, amplified by the tragic events surrounding Romanch Mahajan. **Historical Context:** Efforts to regulate or ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City have a long history, dating back to at least the 1980s. Previous legislative attempts, such as 'Ryder's Law' and earlier bills introduced by former Councilman Robert Holden, have faced opposition and have not resulted in a complete ban. Concerns about animal welfare, including horses collapsing from exhaustion, injuries sustained in traffic, and inadequate living conditions in stables, have consistently been raised. Public safety issues, such as horses bolting and colliding with vehicles or pedestrians, have also been a recurring concern, with some incidents leading to injuries and even fatalities. The industry, which involves approximately 160 horses, 68 carriages, and 208 licensed drivers, has historically lobbied against stringent regulations or outright bans. The current iteration of 'Romanch's Law' appears to have stronger political backing, with a significant number of co-sponsors in the City Council, including support from the City Council Speaker. The proposed timeline of phasing out the industry by 2028 provides a structured approach to transition for both the animals and the human workforce. **Broader Implications:** The renaming of the bill highlights the intersection of tourism, animal welfare, public safety, and cultural representation. The tragedy involving Romanch Mahajan has amplified these concerns, bringing international attention to the issue. The Indian community and diaspora, in particular, have been deeply affected, as evidenced by the strong familial and diplomatic responses. The debate over horse-drawn carriages in New York City is emblematic of broader global discussions about the ethics of using animals for entertainment and labor in urban environments.

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