On Monday, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio signed into law a package of animal welfare measures that will ensure more humane treatment for vulnerable horses, birds and other animals.

One historic measure establishes an Office of Animal Welfare, making New York the first city in the nation to do. This office will advise and assist the Mayor with the administration of animal welfare programs and regulations.

The package also bans the sale of foie gras in New York City; once this law goes into effect in 2022, New York will be the largest city in the world taking this progressive step to protect ducks and geese from the cruelty of force-feeding. Another new law aims to help the city’s carriage horses by protecting them from working in dangerously hot and humid conditions.

“We thank Mayor de Blasio for signing these important animal welfare measures, which will reinforce New York City’s reputation as a place of deep compassion and a humane model for cities around the country,” said ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker. “We look forward to working with the Council and Mayor’s Office to continue protecting New York City animals from unacceptable suffering and abuse."

By enacting these landmark reforms, New York City has once again affirmed its commitment to the welfare and humane treatment of animals.

If you’d like to get involved in promoting and passing better laws for animals where you live, join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade.