St. Landry
Horse ordinace passed in Opelousas makes riding on city streets illegal
Posted: Jun 15, 2012 6:23 PM by Erin Steuber
Updated: Jun 15, 2012 6:26 PM
An ordinance passed in Opelousas is making riding horses on city streets illegal.
"You know you have a 1,000 pound horse, and you know you have a kid that's riding this horse, who doesn't fully understand the responsibility that exists. It can create some serious problems, which is what we've experienced," said Opelousas Police Chief Perry Gallow.
Residents say the ordinance is a step in the right direction because the irresponsibility of horse owners has gotten worse over the years. But it's a shame that everyone has to suffer.Residents say problems arise when owners do not realize the responsibility it takes to care for these animals. They say the irresponsibility of some riders is putting horses, people and property at risk. The ordinance also re-enforces the proper care of horses, requiring owners to have an acre of land for every horse they have.
'I support the ordinance 99 percent," said resident Rosemary St. Clergy. "My only concern is those people who abide by the law, who are trying to do the right thing, may be penalized by our ordinance because it doesn't take into consideration those that do want to lawfully ride horses."
The ordinance will go into effect starting in September.
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