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Council Member Holden Introduces Fire Hydrant and Rodeo Animal Protection Bills

New York City Council · Apr 24, 2025 · starts 1:28:13 · 1 min 26 sec

Council Member Robert Holden introduces legislation to strengthen enforcement against fire hydrant obstruction and to ban inhumane animal practices in rodeos.

Amanda C. Farías

I'd now like to recognize Councilmember Holden, followed by Sanchez then Lee.

Robert F. Holden

Thank you, Majority Leader.

Robert F. Holden

Today I introduced two pieces of legislation: intro 1255 and intro 1256 that reflect our ongoing commitment to public safety and compassion.

Robert F. Holden

One bill, intro 1256, strengthens enforcement against the dangerous and irresponsible practice of obstructing fire hydrants, not just by parking in front of them, but by covering them with garbage bins or other objects to conceal their location.

Robert F. Holden

These tactics endanger the lives uh by uh delaying emergency response when every second counts.

Robert F. Holden

The other bill, intro 1255, takes a stand against the abuse of animals in rodeos, banning inhumane practices like calf roping, electric prods, and flank straps right here in New York City.

Robert F. Holden

Animals should not suffer for the sake of human entertainment.

Robert F. Holden

These are common sense quality of life bills.

Robert F. Holden

Governments should focus on the issues that directly affect our residents, and I believe both bills will do that.

Robert F. Holden

Whether it's protecting critical firefighting infrastructure or standing up for animals who can't speak for themselves, this kind of practical leadership, this is the kind of practical leadership New Yorkers expect and deserve.

Robert F. Holden

Thank you.