NEW YORK, NY — The parents of an 18-year-old tourist killed in a horse-drawn carriage accident urged New York City lawmakers to end the industry, saying they do not want another family to face the same loss. Their testimony came at a City Council hearing Wednesday as pressure built around a renewed ban effort.
The teen, Romanch Mahajan, died June 17 after being thrown from a carriage authorities said had become startled. His family told council members their lives had been permanently changed and argued the crash might have been prevented if earlier ban efforts had passed.
Why are lawmakers revisiting the ban now?
The hearing focused on legislation introduced by Councilmember Chris Marte that would prohibit horse-drawn carriage operations in the city. The measure has drawn additional backing from several council members, including Speaker Julie Menin, who said the death presented an opportunity for lasting change.
Supporters pointed to carriage-related accidents, horse deaths and injuries documented over several years as evidence that the industry remains unsafe. They said the latest fatality underscores concerns that have lingered for years.
Who supported the family's appeal?
The family’s appearance drew support from animal welfare advocates and actress Edie Falco, who said she was deeply moved by the parents’ account. She urged city leaders to take action intended to prevent similar tragedies.
Advocates framed the case as part of a broader safety problem, while also emphasizing the welfare of the horses used in the carriage trade.
What do opponents of the ban say?
Opponents of the proposal say horse-drawn carriage rides are a safe, regulated tourist attraction and should remain part of the city’s landscape. They have resisted previous attempts to outlaw the industry.
The debate has stretched over multiple years, with supporters arguing for stronger restrictions and critics warning against eliminating the rides altogether.
What happens to the proposal next?
The current legislation remains under consideration as council members weigh the renewed push. Former Councilmember Bob Holden, who had sponsored similar bills before, criticized earlier City Council leaders for not moving sooner on the issue.
He said earlier hearings could have given lawmakers a chance to act before Mahajan’s death. For now, the proposal is still pending, with no final decision announced.
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