В штате Пенсильвания обсуждают запрет на металлические колеса, который может затронуть амish

Proposed Bedford Township ordinance stirs fears over negative impact on Amish community BEDFORD COUNTY, Pa (WJAC) — A proposed ordinance in Bedford Township is drawing scrutiny ahead of a vote scheduled for July 21st, with some residents raising concerns it could impact the local Amish community hardest. The ordinance, advertised by the Bedford Township supervisors, would prohibit vehicles with metal wheels from operating on township highways. It would also require owners of horses and other large animals to clean up or contain animal waste on public roadways. Because many Amish families rely on horse-drawn buggies with steel wheels for transportation, some residents believe they would be among those most affected if the ordinance is approved. The proposal defines metal-wheeled vehicles as including horse-drawn buggies and carriages. Under the animal-waste section, it lists horses, mules, donkeys and cows. Violations could bring fines ranging from $250 to $500. The ordinance has sparked conversation online and in the community. One Bedford County resident who contacted 6 News said some people believe the ordinance could disproportionately impact the local Amish community, adding that the local population has grown in recent years. According to the proposed ordinance, the township has noticed damage to public roadways caused by metal tracks and wheels, along with the uncleanliness and potentially hazardous nature of animal waste on public property. Questions were sent to the township supervisors about what prompted the ordinance, how they respond to concerns about disproportionate impact on the Amish community, and what they want residents to understand before the July 21 vote. A response said: “The Supervisors are not going to comment on these questions prior to their Township meeting. In Accordance with the law, the Township will be addressing this Ordinance at the next meeting on July 21, 2026.” Requests for clarification were also sent to the township solicitor and the ACLU of Pennsylvania, but no responses had been received.