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Lawmakers Calling For An End To Horse-Drawn Carriages In NYC

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – There has been much debate over the years about the treatment of horses used for hansom cabs in New York City. Now, two state lawmakers are calling for an end to the popular tourist attraction.

Many hansom cab drivers have giving tours of Central Park and other parts of the city for years and say while they've seen it all, their horses are always well taken care of.

"They're nice, they're in good shape," said one driver about his horse. "They have a lot of food and water." 

But State Senator Tony Avella and Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal want to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City, calling the industry antiquated and barbaric.

1010 WINS' Steve Sandberg reports: Hansom Cabs 'Quintessential' New York

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But many New Yorkers say the carriages are an icon of the city. "They've been here for the longest," said one man. "That's part of New York City."

What do you think about the carriages? Sound off in our comments section below.

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