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New York City can no longer tolerate the suffering and danger inflicted by horse-drawn carriages. These outdated attractions put vulnerable animals and countless pedestrians at risk. It's time for a modern, humane future.

Council Member Robert Holden's Ryder's Law (Intro 967) would end carriage horse operations by June 1, 2026, prevent new licenses, retire the horses to sanctuaries, and support drivers through workforce retraining. As a NYC resident, your voice matters! Please contact your city councilmember and other key decision-makers today and urge them to support and co-sponsor this vital legislation.

The urgent need for this reform was driven home in 2022 when Ryder, a carriage horse, collapsed in Manhattan after being forced to work while ill and malnourished. His plight sparked outrage worldwide and prominently displayed the systemic cruelty of this industry, where horses are often overworked in extreme weather, surrounded by traffic, and deprived of proper rest and care. Ryder's Law is named in his honor to ensure no other horse suffers the same fate.

Cities around the world have already banned horse-drawn carriages in recognition of the dangers to both animals and people. New York has the opportunity to join them, replacing these inhumane rides with modern, eco-friendly alternatives that protect animals, safeguard public safety, and promote the city's forward-thinking values.

Every voice counts in the fight for a safer, kinder city. Urge your city councilmember and other important stakeholders to stand with the majority of New Yorkers who want an end to carriage horse cruelty. Together, we can honor Ryder's memory and create a future where no horse suffers on our streets.

Letter to Decision Maker(s) for reference:

Decision makers: New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City councilmembers, Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, Comptroller Brad Lander, and Speaker Adrienne E. Adams

Subject: Support Ryder’s Law to End Cruel Carriage Horse Industry

I urge you to support and advance Ryder’s Law (Intro 967), which will phase out horse-drawn carriages in New York City by 2026 and provide humane retirement for the horses.

This legislation is urgently needed to prevent further tragedies like the collapse of Ryder, the ailing carriage horse whose suffering in the street brought national outrage. Horses are forced to work long hours in extreme weather, navigate dangerous traffic, and live in inadequate stables, conditions that endanger both animal and public safety.

Ryder’s Law offers a compassionate, practical solution by replacing carriage horses with electric carriages, ensuring that current drivers can transition to new jobs while horses are guaranteed safe sanctuary placements.

Please do everything in your power to pass Ryder’s Law and protect both animals and people in our city.

Sincerely,

Signed

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Victory! See the update here.