After promising to end the city’s controversial horse carriage industry during his electoral race, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that the horses will be retired this year, providing a welcome timeline and a clear victory for animal advocates who’ve worked on the issue for years.

The Dodo, by Melissa Cronin

"A humane society doesn't do that to animals," de Blasio said, adding that a bill was being drafted right now to achieve the ban in City Council. “That is part of making change in the world."    

De Blasio made the announcement during a 45-minute long Google Hangout chat, reports the NY Daily News, saying “We expect action on it this year.”

Animal advocates applauded the news -- Allie Feldman, Executive Director of animal welfare group NYCLASS, said in a statement: 

"Mayor de Blasio's commitment to replacing outdated and unsafe horse drawn carriages on dangerous New York City streets with a new, economically viable alternative is another reminder that New Yorkers can count on this mayor to deliver on his promises."

Read More: https://www.thedodo.com/mayor-de-blasio-nycs-cruel-hor-506765331.html