Bill to Ban Horse Carriages in NYC Heads to Council

The mayor wants to replace the horses with electric cars

Long-delayed legislation to ban horse carriages in New York City is finally going to be introduced at the City Council next week.

City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito said Monday that the bill is still being drafted but is nearly finished.

The ban to end the rides, which are popular with some Manhattan tourists, was a 2013 campaign promise of Mayor de Blasio. He said he wanted to replace the carriages with antique-looking electic cars.

But its future became murky after it became uncertain the bill would have enough votes to pass the council.

The legislation's supporters include animal welfare activists. It was met with fierce opposition by carriage horse drivers and actor Liam Neeson. 

The bill could also contain a provision in which the city would pay for a green taxi medallion for the drivers, who could then drive cabs.

Copyright The Associated Press
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