Mamdani’s Horse-Drawn Carriage Ban Should Put Independent Businesses on High Alert
New York City's famous horse-drawn carriages have been part of the city's tourism industry for generations. Now, Mayor Zohran Mamdani is under considerable criticism for a proposal to ban them altogether, a move which would have a devastating impact on the livelihoods of over 150 carriage drivers.
The proposal, known as “Romanch’s Law” – which would end horse-drawn carriage rides in Central Park by June 2028 – threatens an established tourism tradition and raises questions about the economic consequences for the workers who depend on it.
The city council voted to pass Romanch’s Law on Thursday, sparking a comment from President Donald Trump.
“So sad to see the beloved Central Park Horse-drawn Carriage Industry ending after over a Century, based largely on one tragic accident," the president posted on Truth Social Thursday. "When there is a car accident in the area, of which there are many, they don’t stop cars from entering the Park. So why would they stop the Carriages? It was a Great Tradition. Another piece of History that’s gone. It will be missed!”
Drivers are clearly in a state of uncertainty about their financial future, even as the city talks about what it's going to do to assist the drivers in finding other work.
The union’s lawyers say they have ample grounds for a legal challenge. There is concern over the fact that there is no provision in the bill to compensate the carriage divers for the thousands of dollars they have spent to operate their carriages.
According to the union, 68 carriage medallions cost owners as much as $400,000.
The stakes go well beyond the carriage industry.
Per NYC Tourism + Conventions, tourism had an $84.7 billion economic impact in 2025 and supported around 400,000 jobs throughout the five boroughs. All the usual suspects (hotels, restaurants, retail shops, entertainment venues, etc.) rely on tourists spending their money in the city.
A workforce transition plan may provide some help but that doesn't guarantee that the affected workers will end up in similar employment.
For independent businesses throughout NYC that are reliant on the tourist trade the proposal could be a warning. If Mamdani is prepared to do away with one of the city's most iconic tourist attractions what's to stop him doing the same to the next one?
Family-owned restaurants, local shops and other small businesses will no doubt be asking themselves whether their very existence could be at risk because of future policy decisions.
NYC’s economic vitality depends on an environment where independent businesses can invest, grow, and serve both residents and visitors. Rather than undermining the traditions and businesses that make the city unique, Mamdani should consider the economic consequences of his proposals before pulling the rug out from under the workers and entrepreneurs who keep New York running.
If one of New York’s most recognizable traditions can be on the chopping block today, independent businesses have every reason to ask: Who will be next tomorrow?
Photo Courtesy ABC