New York City Council member Christopher Marte announced that a bill to ban horse-drawn carriages, originally introduced as 'Ryder's law', will be renamed 'Romanch's Law' in honor of a 17-year-old Indian teenager who was killed in a Central Park incident. The bill seeks to prohibit horse-drawn carriages in New York City, citing safety and animal welfare concerns.
Background of the Bill
The legislation was first introduced in 2024 by Council member Marte, who represents Lower Manhattan. The initial version was named after a dog named Ryder that was injured in a carriage-related accident. However, following the tragic death of Romanch, a 17-year-old from India, Marte decided to rename the bill to honor the teen's memory. The incident occurred in Central Park, where Romanch was struck by a horse-drawn carriage.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, Romanch was visiting New York City with his family when the accident happened. He was crossing a street near Central Park when a horse-drawn carriage lost control, resulting in fatal injuries. The driver of the carriage was taken into custody for questioning, but no charges have been filed yet. The New York City Police Department is investigating the incident.
Support for the Bill
Council member Marte said, "Renaming this bill to 'Romanch's Law' is a small way to ensure that his memory lives on and that no other family has to suffer such a tragedy. We need to prioritize safety and animal welfare in our city." The bill has gained support from animal rights groups, including PETA, which has long campaigned against horse-drawn carriages in New York City. PETA spokesperson Sarah Jones stated, "Horse-drawn carriages are dangerous for both animals and people. We urge the City Council to pass this legislation without delay."
Opposition and Debate
However, the bill faces opposition from carriage drivers and some tourism advocates, who argue that the carriages are a historic part of New York City and provide jobs for many families. The Horse and Carriage Association of New York City said in a statement, "This tragic accident was an isolated incident. We have strict safety protocols, and banning carriages would harm small businesses and eliminate a beloved tourist attraction."
Next Steps
The bill is expected to be voted on by the New York City Council in the coming months. If passed, it would phase out horse-drawn carriages over a period of two years, replacing them with electric-powered vehicles. Mayor Eric Adams has not yet taken a position on the bill, but his office said they are reviewing the legislation.
