Yesterday the City Council's Consumer Affairs Committee held a hearing regarding carriage horses and how proposed bills may help transform the industry, which is under constant scrutiny by animal rights groups.
Four bills were discussed in a packed room with over 250 people in attendance, where council members differed on their opinions. While Leroy Comrie (Queens) said, "The horse carriage industry is part of what makes New York City special," councilwoman Melissa Mark-Viverito declared, "I don't think it's the only reason why people come to New York—to ride in a horse carriage."
Amongst the bills discussed was one suggesting the replacement of horse-drawn carriages with a more humane antique electric car; another aimed to restrict carriage rides to Central Park; and another to eliminate them all together. The hot topic seemed to be a proposal that would raise rates from $34 to $50 for a 20 minute ride, giving the industry its first rate hike in 21 years. With this increase would come new regulations, like giving horses a 5 week vacation.
According to the NY Times, the hearing was the first to be held regarding the bills, and if any pass the committee, they'll be brought before the full Council.
