Epstein explains vote in favor and cites new day for horses and workers
After Felder is called, Council Member Harvey Epstein asks to explain his vote. He thanks Chair Schulman, the Speaker, Council Member Marte, and Night Class, and says the city can care about horses and jobs while transitioning the industry; he votes in the affirmative.
Felder.
Epstein.
Permission to extend my vote.
Permission granted.
I want to thank Chair Shulman, the Speaker, and Councilmember Marte for their leadership.
I want to thank the organizers of the night class.
This is a new day in New York.
We have a history of caring about horses.
We have a history of caring about jobs in New Yorkers.
And this tragedy, the tragedy of romance, will not go unnoticed.
We're standing with New Yorkers, the majority of New Yorkers, and the Central Park Conservancy and saying it is time for change.
We're standing with animal rights organizations to help this transition.
We're standing with the drivers to say there will be new jobs and new opportunities, and this council will stay involved.
This is a new day, transitioning this plan for the betterment of all New York.
I'm proud to stand with you all and vote in the affirmative.