Legislative Advocacy
Fighting for Your Right to Operate
For years, Texas carriage operators faced a constant threat: local governments, pressured by activist campaigns, enacting ordinances that would effectively ban or cripple carriage operations within their city limits. Each operator fought these battles alone — and too often, lost.
THCA changed the strategy. Instead of fighting city by city, we took the fight to Austin — where statewide protections can be secured once and applied everywhere. Our legislative victories have given Texas carriage operators the certainty they need to build sustainable businesses.
Our Legislative Record
HB 2127 is a landmark preemption bill that protects horse carriage operators from conflicting local ordinances across Texas. Prior to this legislation, cities could — and did — enact their own patchwork of rules, bans, and restrictions that made it nearly impossible for operators to plan their businesses with any certainty.
Key Impacts
- Established statewide standards that supersede conflicting local ordinances
- Protected operators in San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, and other major cities
- Ended the threat of city-by-city bans driven by activist campaigns
- Provided legal certainty for operators to invest in their businesses
The bill was championed by THCA after years of operators facing existential threats from local governments. Multiple Texas cities had considered or enacted restrictions that would have effectively ended carriage operations within their limits.
Building on the foundation established by HB 2127, this bill advances comprehensive statewide standards for the horse carriage industry. HB 5356 addresses gaps in existing law and ensures that uniform, science-based welfare requirements and clear operational guidelines govern the industry across all Texas municipalities.
Key Impacts
- Advances comprehensive, evidence-based welfare standards statewide
- Closes regulatory gaps left by prior legislation
- Establishes clear operational guidelines for all Texas carriage operators
- Protects both working animals and the professionals who care for them
The 89th Legislature presents an opportunity to strengthen the protections won in 2023. THCA is actively working with legislators to ensure HB 5356 passes and provides the comprehensive framework the industry needs.
Our Advocacy Journey
Multiple Texas cities consider carriage bans; THCA mobilizes statewide response
HB 2127 introduced in the 88th Legislature with THCA support
HB 2127 signed into law — a landmark victory for Texas carriage operators
THCA monitors implementation and prepares next legislative push
HB 5356 introduced in the 89th Legislature — advocacy continues
Make Your Voice Heard
Contact your state representative today. Let them know you support HB 5356 and stand with Texas carriage operators.