Dear New York City Council Member,

As a concerned animal advocate, I am writing to urge you to oppose Intro. 653. This bill puts the health and safety of New York City's carriage horses at risk by eliminating the authority of the departments of Health and Mental Hygiene and Consumer Affairs, the NYC Police Department and ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement to inspect carriage horse stables.

The language in the bill is very vague, calling for the inspection of the stables by a "single entity that has veterinary training in the care of horses." It does not determine who would select the entity, and makes no mention of who would fund the inspections. It takes authority and oversight away from the City, law enforcement and ASPCA agents who have expertise in equine care and a commitment to the welfare of animals. There is nothing preventing the carriage horse industry from self-regulating through a third-party arrangement.

New York City's carriage horses are subjected to living and working in poor conditions, necessitating more effective enforcement, not less. ASPCA agents monitor the care and condition of the horses, checking stalls for proper bedding, size and cleanliness. They also check on feed to ensure that a proper amount is on hand and that it is free of vermin, as well as evaluate lighting, ventilation and unsafe conditions at the stables.

Without access to the stables, the ASPCA cannot monitor the conditions of the horses or their living environment and cannot ensure that failures to comply with the law are addressed. For these reasons, I urge you to oppose Intro. 653.

Thank you for your time and consideration.